November 2021: Lung Cancer Awareness Month

WHEREAS, in the United States, lung cancer is the second most common form of cancer in both men and women (not counting skin cancer); is the leading cause of cancer deaths in Michigan; smoking is associated with about 90% of lung cancer deaths nationwide; secondhand smoke also contributes to increased lung cancer cases and deaths; and,

 

WHEREAS, the number of new lung cancer cases and the number of deaths from lung cancer both continue to decrease due to smoking cessation as well as advances in early detection and treatment; and,

 

WHEREAS, not all people who get lung cancer smoke; many people with lung cancer formerly smoked, but many others never smoked at all; lung cancer in people who don't smoke can be caused by exposure to radon, secondhand smoke, air pollution, family history of lung cancer, and other factors; a small portion of lung cancers develop in people with no known risk factors for the disease; and,

 

WHEREAS, in the United States, about 10% to 20% of lung cancers, or 20,000 to 40,000 lung cancers each year, happen in people who never smoked; and,

 

WHEREAS, people who currently smoke, and have a desire to quit, can call the Michigan Tobacco Quitline at 1-800-QuitNow (784-8669); and,

 

WHEREAS, radon gas exposure is the second highest risk factor in lung cancer; radon levels at or above the US EPA action level of 4pCi/L are found in homes in all 83 Michigan counties and pose potential health risks to Michiganders - as a result, radon reduction strategies should be implemented; and, 

 

WHEREAS, health care providers should understand risk factors for lung cancer and be aware of advances in lung cancer screening; and,

 

WHEREAS, people who are 50-80 years of age and have a 20 pack-year smoking history should consult with their provider about lung cancer screening; science has shown this newer screening test saves lives by detecting lung cancer earlier when it may be more easily and successfully treated; and,

 

WHEREAS, educating both people who are at risk for lung cancer due to their smoking history and age and providers about the importance of annual lung cancer screening may reduce deaths from lung cancer;

 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim November 2021 as Lung Cancer Awareness Month in Michigan.