Friday Facts: Dispelling a Common Misconception

A lot of people believe that lung cancer is "the smoker's disease." However, this is not true! If you have lungs, you can get lung cancer. Though you surely increase your risk by smoking, this disease is not specific to smokers. Lung cancer does not discriminate.

I've spoken about lung cancer with lots of people, and I've definitely heard a person or two say, "Well, I guess they brought it upon themselves" or "Well, don't they kind of deserve it?" The answer is NO!!! NO ONE deserves to get lung cancer, or any type of cancer for that matter!

This stigma is one reason that lung cancer is one of most serious but least-funded type of cancer in our country. By raising awareness, we can help end the prejudice and educate people about how they can help.

But, of course, please don't smoke! And if you do, please quit!