Lung Cancer Awareness Month: The invisible cancer

Janaye Clifford/Iowa State Daily

The American Lung Association provides ways to reduce your risk for lung cancer.

Jasmine Schillinger

Those who have lost loved ones to cancer may often experience the emotional devastation that goes along with being diagnosed. Though the chance of ever becoming diagnosed can be hard to think about when being young and healthy, activity that students participate in now may effect potential development in the future.

Lung Cancer Awareness Month is upon us this November. The American Lung Association hopes to educate the public that though this disease is not preventable and more likely among older adults, there are ways younger individuals can reduce future risk and development. 

Anyone is subject to potential to development of lung cancer, and it is the second most common cancer diagnosed among both men and women. According to the American Cancer Society, the average age for lung cancer to develop is 70 years old. However, it is a disease that can develop from poor lifestyle habits and disregarding regulation. Due to this, the American Lung Association encourages people to take early precautions to reduce their risk of later development as much as possible.

TIPS TO REDUCE LUNG CANCER RISK:

– Don’t smoke, or quit if you are a current smoker.

– Test your home for radon.

– Limit your exposure to secondhand smoke.

– Limit your exposure to air pollution.

– Be aware of possible exposure to asbestos.