Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S., and despite its undeniable impact on our nation, the disease often remains in the shadows. More people are surviving lung cancer than ever before, but a new national survey indicates there’s more work to be done in raising awareness of lung cancer among women.
The LUNG FORCE Lung Health Barometer surveyed a nationally representative sample of 4,000 women and men about their awareness and understanding of lung cancer.
Survey findings from the 2020 National Lung Health Barometer revealed that:
- Only 8% of adults know that lung cancer is the #1 cancer killer of women, compared to 21% of adults who know it is the #1 cancer killer of men.
- 73% of adults have not spoken with their doctor about their risk for lung cancer and only 38% of adults are concerned they might get the disease.
- Too few adults understand that lung cancer is among the cancers most likely to affect women (20%) and men (34%).
In the last 43 years, the lung cancer incidence rate has increased 84% among women (while decreasing 38% in men), so it’s critically important for women to know their risk and take action to defeat lung cancer.
Page last updated: June 9, 2020