Annual Report Released During Lung Cancer Awareness Month

The American Lung Association Logo appears on a smart phone

(Photo Illustration by Mateusz Slodkowski/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month, and Tuesday, November 19 is an important day for the American Lung Association in New Jersey. That’s the day they will release key lung cancer data for the 7th annual “State of Lung Cancer” report.

The annual “State of Lung Cancer” report highlights how the toll of lung cancer varies by state and examines key indicators in New Jersey. This includes new cases, survival, early diagnosis, surgical treatment, lack of treatment, screening rates, and insurance coverage of comprehensive biomarker testing.

The 2024 “State of Lung Cancer” report will be available at Lung.org/solc. The report “indicates that states must do more to protect their residents from lung cancer. For the fourth consecutive year, the “State of Lung Cancer” report explores the lung cancer burden among racial and ethnic groups at the national and state levels

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in New Jersey and across the U.S., yet awareness about the disease remains low and the lifesaving potential of lung cancer screening remains underutilized. The “State of Lung Cancer” report highlights opportunities to reduce the burden of lung cancer.

The American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease through education, advocacy, and research.

The work of the American Lung Association is focused on four strategic imperatives: to defeat lung cancer; to champion clean air for all; to improve the quality of life for those with lung disease and their families; and to create a tobacco-free future. To support the work of the American Lung Association, you can find and sign up to volunteer at a local event at Lung.org/events.

One event in Central Jersey is the Better Breathers Club for those living with chronic lung disease. Better Breathers Clubs are welcoming support groups for individuals with chronic lung disease and their caregivers. You can learn better ways to cope with conditions such as COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, and asthma while getting the support of others in similar situations. They’re led virtually by a trained facilitator, and give you the tools you need to live the best quality of life you can.

You can use their online form to communicate your interest in joining the Virtual Better Breathers Club.

You can contact the club facilitator for the Somerville, New Jersey meeting. Reach out to Robyn Mustacchio, BS, RRT, CTTS, at 908-595-2345 to learn about upcoming virtual dates, meetings, and topics.

Check out other events here.

You can donate to the American Lung Association here.