Lung Cancer Awareness Month 2025 – challenging outdated and false assumptions

November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month—a global initiative dedicated to raising awareness about the world’s leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Did you know that lung cancer claims more lives than breast, prostate, and colon cancers combined? Yet, it often receives less attention and funding than other cancers. It’s time to change that.

Why Lung Cancer Awareness Matters

Lung cancer is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, which limits treatment options and reduces survival chances. While smoking is the main risk factor, it’s a myth that only smokers are at risk. In fact, around 10% to 20% of people who develop lung cancer have never smoked. Factors like air pollution, workplace hazards, and genetics can also play a role. The truth is – anyone with lungs can get lung cancer.

The Global Impact
  • In 2020, 2.5 million people were diagnosed with lung cancer worldwide.
  • That same year, 1.8 million people died from the disease.
  • Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer death globally.
Early Detection Saves Lives

Lung cancer is much more treatable when found early, so it’s important to know the signs. Here are some symptoms to watch out for:

  • Persistent cough
  • Breathlessness
  • Unexplained weight loss

If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your GP. Treatments for lung cancer are improving all the time, and many people go on to live a normal life after treatment.

The Role of the Global Lung Cancer Coalition (GLCC)

Founded in 2001, the Global Lung Cancer Coalition (GLCC) is the international voice of people affected by lung cancer. The GLCC works tirelessly to:

  • Advocate for early detection and screening programmes worldwide
  • Promote equitable access to treatment and palliative care
  • Provide resources and support for patients and families
  • Drive policy change through global data visualisation tools like the Lung Cancer Atlas, which highlights disparities in diagnosis and care

The GLCC’s mission is to support member organisations in improving outcomes and quality of life for people with lung cancer everywhere.

How You Can Help
  • Share facts and resources during Lung Cancer Awareness Month
  • Support tobacco control initiatives and encourage smoking cessation
  • Advocate for increased funding for lung cancer research and screening programmes
Key Facts at a Glance
  • Incidence: 2.5 million cases globally (2020)
  • Mortality: 1.8 million deaths (2020)
  • Smoking-related cases: 85%
  • Five-year survival rate: ~10%
  • Leading cause of cancer death: Yes

Let’s work together to challenge outdated assumptions and improve outcomes for everyone affected by lung cancer.

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