Lung Cancer Awareness Month:

What Every Family Should Know About Risks and Prevention

November marks Lung Cancer Awareness Month, a time for us all to reflect on a disease that impacts countless families. At MyAlly Health, while our primary focus is on family planning and reproductive health, we understand that true well-being encompasses every aspect of our patients’ lives. Lung cancer, unfortunately, can cast a long shadow, affecting not only those diagnosed but also their loved ones and future generations. That’s why it’s crucial to share vital information about risks and prevention.

Understanding Lung Cancer: A Silent Threat

Lung cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. According to the American Cancer Society, lung cancer accounts for about 1 in 5 cancer deaths, and more people die of lung cancer than of colon, breast, and prostate cancers combined. While often associated with smoking, it’s important to remember that lung cancer can affect anyone, even those who have never smoked.

Key Risk Factors: Beyond the Obvious

While smoking is undeniably the most significant risk factor, contributing to about 80% to 90% of lung cancer deaths, other factors can increase a person’s risk:

Secondhand Smoke: Exposure to secondhand smoke significantly raises the risk of lung cancer for nonsmokers. It’s particularly relevant for families, as children often face exposure in both homes and public spaces.
Radon Exposure: Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can accumulate in homes and buildings. It’s the second leading cause of lung cancer. Testing your home for radon is a simple yet crucial preventive step.
Asbestos Exposure: Individuals exposed to asbestos fibers, commonly found in older buildings, are at an increased risk of developing lung cancer.
Air Pollution: Long-term exposure to outdoor air pollution can also increase the risk of lung cancer.
Family History: If you have a close relative who had lung cancer, your risk might be higher.

Prevention: Empowering Your Family

The good news is that many risk factors for lung cancer are preventable. Here’s how your family can take proactive steps:

Say No to Smoking: If you smoke, quitting is the most critical step you can take to reduce your risk. Encourage those around you to maintain smoke-free environments.
Avoid Secondhand Smoke: Create a smoke-free environment in your home and vehicle. Advocate for smoke-free public spaces.
Test Your Home for Radon: You can hire professionals to test your home for radon or purchase a home test kit.
Limit Exposure to Carcinogens: If your work involves exposure to substances such as asbestos, make sure you follow proper safety protocols.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: A balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight can contribute to overall health and may reduce cancer risk.
Know Your Family History: Discuss your family’s medical history with them to understand any potential genetic predispositions.

Why This Matters to a Family Planning and Reproductive Health Clinic

At MyAlly Health, we take a holistic approach to health. We connect lung cancer awareness with family planning and reproductive health for several important reasons:

Preconception Health: For individuals planning a pregnancy, reducing exposure to environmental toxins, such as secondhand smoke and radon, is vital for both parental and fetal health. Smoking during pregnancy can lead to serious health issues for both mother and baby.
Parental Health and Longevity: The health of parents has a direct impact on the well-being and future of their children. By encouraging preventive measures against lung cancer, we help ensure parents are healthy and present to raise their families.
Intergenerational Impact: Habits and environmental exposures can have intergenerational effects. Educating families about the risks of lung cancer empowers them to create healthier environments for their children and future generations.
Advocacy for Healthier Communities: Our commitment extends beyond individual patient care. By raising awareness about prevalent health issues, such as lung cancer, we contribute to a healthier community beyond, fostering environments where families can thrive.

Protect Yourself and Those You Love

During Lung Cancer Awareness Month, we encourage you to have conversations with your loved ones about the risks and prevention of lung cancer. Take steps to create a healthier environment for your family. Knowledge is power, and together, we can work toward a future with fewer lung cancer diagnoses.

At MyAlly Health, we offer physicals and mental health screenings to promote your overall health. You can also receive examinations such as Pap smears to test for cervical cancer and Gardasil vaccinations to protect you from HPV infections. If you’d like to schedule an appointment for an exam, contact us today!

MyAlly Health also provides confidential reproductive health services to women and men in the Grand Forks, North Dakota, area, regardless of income or age. These services include offering preventive care, such as STI testing, breast examinations, and pelvic examinations, and determining the best birth control for you. Our clinical services are all performed by nurse practitioners and resident physicians.

Additionally, we provide education, counseling, advocacy, and healthcare services to empower and engage individuals in their overall well-being and reproductive health. Find out more about what we do, help make a difference by donating to our cause, or schedule an appointment with us today.

This November, remember that every gesture counts — whether you’re starting a conversation, taking care of your health, or helping to fund critical research. Together, we can raise awareness, inspire action, and save lives.