Editor: As an American Lung Association of Florida volunteer, I commend Tampa Bay Newspapers and Dilsahd Merchant for speaking out about the dangers of lung cancer for not only
smokers, but also nonsmokers. Too often lung cancer is seen exclusively as a smoker’s disease, ignoring the plight of nonsmokers who also suffer.
Lung cancer is the No. 1 cancer killer in America, causing more deaths than the next three most common cancers combined (colon, breast and prostate).
The American Lung Association of Florida is committed to improving early detection methods of lung cancer and finding more effective treatments, as well as continuing research on the potential causes of lung cancer – from air pollution to smoking cessation.
The American Lung Association releases localized reports about air pollution and smoking trends annually and also conducts award-winning research aimed at improving life for everyone suffering from lung disease. We coordinate events, like the recent “Catch Your Breath” luncheon, where Ms. Merchant spoke, to educate at-risk groups about the dangers of lung disease.
Due to the hard work of sponsors and dedicated volunteers, the luncheon educated more than 110 local women about lung disease and raised funds for vital research efforts and other community programs. Until a cure is found, there are steps you can take to join the fight against lung cancer.
If you are a smoker, quit. Learn more about the other causes of lung cancer in nonsmokers and what you can do to protect yourself and your family by calling your local Lung Association at 1-800-LUNG-USA or by visiting www.lungfla.org.
