Thank you AstraZeneca for sponsoring this post. November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month. Now more than ever, there is reason for hope. Please visit LIVE W.E.L.L. and LVNG With Lung Cancer for more information. 
Photography by The King’s Rose
Lung Cancer Awareness Month
Prior to becoming a mother, business owner, and author of my blog, I worked as a community health educator for the American Cancer Society (ACS). I received my Master’s degree in Health Education from Utah State University and moved to California newly married, graduated, and landed the job of my dreams! I am passionate about health, wellness, education, and children. So, you can only imagine how ecstatic I was to be selected as a Cancer Control Specialist for ACS. This is nothing more rewarding than to be a part of a nationwide community-based voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem. My primary role was to educate the children in the surrounding areas of Los Angeles about cancer prevention.
My time was spent visiting schools and sharing information on how kids can decrease the impact of cancer through 3 specific lifestyle choices which are being tobacco-free, incorporating fruits and vegetables as part of a healthy diet, and engaging in regular physical activity. In addition, I promoted our worksite physical activity and nutrition health programs to companies. It was also a honor to work side-by-side with cancer survivors (who are just the most amazing volunteers and human beings) to spread awareness about our cancer-free initiatives and participate in community events designed to inspire and support those affected by cancer. Research, education, advocacy, and service were the four core initiatives that guided our daily efforts.
I am proud to partner with AstraZeneca in sharing with you that November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month! There is so much to share and discuss about this important health topic. I am grateful for my platform as it allows me to contribute with you in sharing this important message about lung cancer awareness. Creating a dialogue about cancer can be difficult. Many of us have lost a loved one due to cancer. My hope is that this post will provide you with more information about lung cancer and that now more than ever, there is reason for hope.
Lung cancer has no biases, it doesn’t discriminate. Lung cancer can affect anyone. Men, women, and even children can be affected by lung cancer. Whether you are an old smoker, non-smoker, or never smoker, lung cancer can affect you. This message is important. Please, continue to read.
Facts About Lung Cancer
In the United States, lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death among both men and women, accounting for approximately 154,000 deaths each year and about one-quarter of all cancer deaths – more than breast, prostate and colorectal cancers combined.
In 2018, an estimated 234,000 people will be diagnosed with lung cancer – that is three and a half times the number of seats in a typical professional football stadium.
Stages of Lung Cancer
Lung cancer stage is determined by tumor size and whether it has spread to nearby areas, lymph nodes, or other organs. Some of these stages have unique names, which can sometimes make understanding the types of lung cancer confusing.
With the advancement of treatment options, it is critical for patients not to give up – to be aware of their options and talk to their doctor about what treatments may be appropriate for them.
Treatment Options for Lung Cancer Survivors
Lung cancer treatment is a big decision, and patients deserve the best option for them from the get-go. Just as a team coach wants to draft the best player first rather than wait until a later draft round, there is no type of cancer where you shouldn’t choose your best option first for your specific type of disease. In order to get the best first, you have to test first.
The bottom line is that patients should be their own advocates: get tested for the right treatment options, wait for the results and start on the best option first.
Never Lose Hope
Thank you so much for reading this post. I invite you to join me in creating awareness of Lung Cancer Awareness Month for the month of November. If you have someone in your life who is affected by lung cancer encourage them to become their own health advocate. It is important they understand their diagnosis. It is critical that they have a discussion with their healthcare providers to determine which treatment options are the best for their unique situation. There is reason for hope now more than ever. My love goes out to you if you are affected with lung cancer or know who someone who is. Please contact your healthcare provider to design a personalized treatment plan that works for you or someone who you love that is affected by lung cancer.
Please visit LIVE W.E.L.L.and LVNG With Lung Cancer for more information and feel free to share this post and those links with anyone you know that is affected by lung cancer!
I was selected for this opportunity as a member of CLEVER and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.
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