Lung Cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the lungs, which are part of the respiratory system.
It occurs when cells in the lungs grow uncontrollably, forming a tumor. There are two main types of lung cancer:
Symptoms of lung cancer can include a persistent cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing up blood, and unexplained weight loss. Risk factors include smoking (the leading cause), exposure to secondhand smoke, exposure to radon gas, asbestos, and other carcinogens, and a family history of lung cancer. Early detection and treatment are crucial for improving survival rates. Common treatments include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.
Lung cancer screening can save lives by finding cancer before it’s deadly. Your breath is sacred. Help keep tobacco sacred for our ancestors and for future generations.
Use the Lung Cancer Signs & Symptoms resource to learn about the warning signs of lung disease, and to help you understand when you should get screened. Talk to your doctor right away if you experience any of these symptoms.
Join the American Indian Cancer Foundation (AICAF) and other Tribal and Urban Indian Clinics to raise awareness of the Sacred Breath campaign during National Lung Cancer Awareness Month in November.
Our people know lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death for Native people. AICAF remains committed to eliminating the cancer burdens of Indigenous people through improved access to prevention, early detection, treatment, and survivor support.
AICAF encourages our relatives to engage in healthy lung practices (like getting screened or participating in traditional activities and movement) and keeping traditional tobacco sacred by eliminating the use of commercial tobacco. Talk to your healthcare provider about your lung health, your family history, and when screening is right for you.
Everyone plays a role in raising lung cancer awareness in their communities because early intervention can be life-saving. Join us to discuss healing through art and culture, breathwork, and traditional tobacco. Together, we can improve lung health for our relatives and future generations!
Cherish relatives impacted by a lung cancer diagnosis. Listen to their stories, learn from their wisdom, and celebrate their sacred lives. Encourage a relative diagnosed with lung cancer or a cancer caregiver to attend a local cancer support circle.
Share what you have learned by using the hashtag #SacredBreath so we can see how you are raising awareness! Tell your friends, family, and coworkers about our campaign and ask them to share posts from our social media toolkit to get your network involved.
Talk to your health care provider to discuss your screening options or schedule your next lung cancer screening. Talk to your loved ones about the importance of prevention, early detection, and getting screened. Early detection improves the likelihood of favorable health outcomes. Find more information on when to get screened for lung cancer on our website. Sign the Sacred Breath Screening Pledge now and use this as an opportunity to discuss your screening options with your health care provider.
Join us during Sacred Breath Month to raise lung cancer awareness. Participate in AICAF’s annual Virtual Sacred Breath Walk & Run event and webinar during. The webinar will include a guided meditation, calming music, and a Q&A to honor traditional tobacco and share insights.
Engage with us the entire month of November as we provide new resources, toolkits, and webinars. Stay informed about lung health and share our educational materials with your loved ones!
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