Shine A Light On Lung Cancer

I'm excited to take part in the 7th annual Shine a Light on Lung Cancer vigil, Thursday evening, November 5, at the Southcoast Centers for Cancer Care. It's the largest coordinated awareness event for lung cancer in the world. There are 300 vigils happening at the same time around the country. The Shine a Light on Lung Cancer vigil provides hope, support, and compassion for those impacted by lung cancer and those at risk - from survivor - to the newly diagnosed - to loved ones. This special event is designed to promote lung cancer awareness and to connect with our community for support. And as important, it's about promoting research to find a cure for lung cancer.

Did you know that lung cancer is the number one cancer in the country? Cancer turns lives upside down. Relationships, loyalties and friendships are tested. The diagnosis of lung cancer can be a very long journey - one that's difficult to travel alone. As the healthcare delivery system changes and new scientific discoveries are integrated into cancer care, the role of the oncology staff will continue to evolve.

Lung cancer is one of the major causes of death in the United States and in the South Coast region. Recent research has demonstrated that selective screening of high-risk patients with low-dose CT scans of the chest can be detected at an early stage, and patients can be cured of this disease.