Lung cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer worldwide and more than 4,000 people die of the disease every day.
Many people with advanced lung cancer can feel overwhelmed and stressed when they are first diagnosed and may wonder how to cope in the days ahead. A lung cancer diagnosis does not have to mean giving up. You can start by talking with your doctor to better understand the treatment options that might be right for you or your loved one.
Starting the fight
Combined with a sense of stigma and shame associated with the disease, advanced lung cancer patients may feel scared and without options. It’s important to know that all patients are worthy of compassion and support from loved ones, health care providers and the wider cancer community.
Delay or refuse treatment
Avoid telling others about their diagnosis
Hesitate to reach out for help
Despite how common lung cancer is, there are still many misconceptions about the disease. While smoking is a leading cause, there are a number of other risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing lung cancer.
Having accurate information is a critical first step in the fight and understanding your diagnosis:
- Worldwide, it is estimated that approximately 25% of lung cancer patients never smoked.
- External factors can lead to increased risk of lung cancer, including exposure to radon, asbestos and air pollution.
- While lung cancer is mostly diagnosed in older people it can still occur in younger adults.
- People diagnosed with lung cancer may experience similar kinds of challenges as anyone who learns they have cancer.
Many people think a lung cancer diagnosis is a death sentence. However, over the past decade, new advancements have been made, which have led to more survivors and more hope for those facing the disease.
How to fight
Finding out you have advanced lung cancer is stressful and it can be hard to absorb all of the information shared. Conversations with your health care team can feel like a blur, but it’s important to have effective conversations with your doctor shortly after being diagnosed to understand your disease and next steps.
Take an active role in your health care by:
- Learning about your cancer online or in the library and by talking to your doctor
- Asking for a second opinion
- Joining a cancer support group or speaking to others who have been through a similar experience
Good communication with your doctor will help you and your loved ones stay informed and ready to take action.
Here are three helpful tips:
Why we fight
Over the past decade, great strides have been made in advanced lung cancer care, leading to more survivors and a sense of hope for those facing the disease.
Everyone’s reason to fight is unique, but it’s important to know.
