Preventing The Most Common Cancers In The Black Community

- By

Lung Cancer

Disobeying the no smoking sign!

Source: skynesher / Getty

The stats

According to the American Lung Association, Black Americans with lung cancer are 21 percent less likely to survive five years post diagnosis compared to white patients. Black lung cancer patients are also 18 percent less likely to receive an early diagnosis that would increase their survival rates and 23 percent less likely to undergo surgical treatment.

 

Prevention

Lung cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer because, according to The American Lung Association, 90 percent of cases are due to a lifestyle choice: smoking. Here are steps you can take to prevent lung cancer:

  • Don’t smoke. The best way to prevent lung cancer is to never smoke
  • Quit today. If you are or have been a smoker, you can still greatly reduce your chances of lung cancer by quitting today. Human lungs recover from tobacco damage at a surprisingly rapid rate when a smoker quits cold turkey.
  • Avoid secondhand smoke. Even non-smokers have an increased risk of lung cancer if they are regularly exposed to second-hand smoke.
  • Be aware of environmental risk factors. While smoking is the top cause of lung cancer, environmental hazards such as asbestos and carcinogens are also a risk. Avoid prolonged exposure to environments that are known to contain these elements.
  • Know your family history. Having family members with a history of lung cancer increases your risk of lung cancer. Speak to your doctor about your family’s medical history and how to properly monitor your risk.

 

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