Lung Cancer Awareness Month: Four things you can do to protect your lungs

November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month, a time to reflect on the impact of this disease and what steps we can take to reduce our risk. Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers, especially in older adults, but the good news is there are proactive measures you can take to protect your lungs and catch potential issues early.

Here are some key actions older adults can take to help prevent lung cancer:

1. Quit smoking

Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and the risk increases with age. If you’re a smoker, quitting at any age can significantly lower your risk, even after years of smoking. For non-smokers, avoiding exposure to second-hand smoke is also crucial in reducing your risk.

2. Screening and early detection

If you’re over the age of 55 and have a history of smoking, talk to your doctor about lung cancer screening options, such as low-dose CT scans. Early detection is key to improving outcomes, and regular screenings can catch lung cancer in its earliest stages when it’s most treatable.

3. Stay active and eat healthy

A healthy lifestyle can go a long way in keeping your lungs and body strong. Regular physical activity, a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and maintaining a healthy weight can all contribute to overall lung health.

4. Stay informed and advocate for awareness

Lung cancer can affect anyone, regardless of smoking history, and awareness is the first step toward better prevention and treatment. Stay informed about new research, treatment options, and advocacy efforts. Share information with friends and family and encourage others to take care of their lung health.

By taking these actions, older adults can help reduce their risk of lung cancer and raise awareness in their communities. This Lung Cancer Awareness Month let’s commit to making lung health a priority—for ourselves and for the generations to come.

Remember, it’s never too late to make a change for better lung health!

McMaster Optimal Aging Blog Posts are written by faculty, staff, PhD students, and external collaborators, and are assessed for accuracy by members of the Portal scientific leadership team.

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