Lung Cancer Awareness Month is observed annually in November and highlights the impact of the disease, encourages early detection, and fosters support for those affected. Tragically, lung cancer is the second most common cancer and is also known as the leading cause of cancer deaths in men and women worldwide.
Symptoms to Watch For
Lung cancer often doesn’t show symptoms until it’s advanced. Common signs include:
- Persistent cough
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Coughing up blood
- Hoarseness
- Unexplained weight loss
Diagnosis and Staging
Diagnosis typically involves:
- Chest X-rays and CT scans
- Biopsies
- PET scans to check for spread
Staging ranges from Stage 0 (localized) to Stage IV (metastatic), which helps guide treatment decisions. Riverview Health provides accessible, low-cost lung screenings (Provider’s order is required) to help identify potential symptoms early and take proactive steps that could save lives. Early detection is key, and we're committed to supporting your health every step of the way.