American Lung Association's Turquoise Takeover Shines a Light on Lung Cancer

Through education, advocacy and research, LUNG FORCE continues its mission to reduce lung cancer diagnoses and improve outcomes for those living with the disease. Since its launch in 2014, LUNG FORCE has raised more than $32 million for lifesaving lung cancer research, expanding its research commitment by over 140%.

"We are making incredible strides in lung cancer awareness and research, but there is still much work to do," said Harold Wimmer, President and CEO of the American Lung Association. "Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S., with someone diagnosed every two minutes. Yet, thanks to advancements in early detection and treatment, the five-year survival rate has improved by 44% over the past decade and more than 65 new therapies have been approved since 2016. Turquoise Takeover is a powerful reminder that we must continue to stand together, support those impacted and push for even greater progress."

The annual Lung Cancer Action Week and Turquoise Takeover celebration unites the nation to stand together against lung cancer. Each year, the movement turns the country turquoise—the signature color of LUNG FORCE—by lighting up buildings and landmarks across the U.S., encouraging people to wear turquoise and share their support on social media and amplifying the voices of those impacted by lung cancer. By raising awareness and funding critical research, LUNG FORCE is helping to save more lives and move closer to a world without lung cancer.

The American Lung Association invites individuals and organizations to participate in Turquoise Takeover and Lung Cancer Action Week by:

• Joining a local LUNG FORCE Walk or creating a DIY Fundraiser to benefit those affected by lung cancer and support lung cancer research
• Getting screened for lung cancer if eligible
• Testing your home for radon
• Learning about the latest educational information on lung cancer
• Donating to help achieve a world free of lung cancer

Early detection of lung cancer saves lives, and the Saved By The Scan campaign helps people determine if they are at high risk for lung cancer. By visiting SavedByTheScan.org, individuals can take a risk assessment quiz to understand their vulnerability. Since 2017, more than 1.4 million people have learned if they are at high risk for lung cancer through the campaign. Understanding lung cancer risks, including smoking, radon exposure, secondhand smoke and air pollution is critical in the fight against this disease.

For more details on how to join the movement, visit LUNGFORCE.org.

About the American Lung Association
The American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease through education, advocacy and research. The work of the American Lung Association is focused on four strategic imperatives: to defeat lung cancer; to champion clean air for all; to improve the quality of life for those with lung disease and their families; and to create a tobacco-free future. For more information about the American Lung Association, which has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and is a Platinum-Level GuideStar Member, call 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872) or visit: Lung.org. To support the work of the American Lung Association, find a local event at Lung.org/events. 

About LUNG FORCE
The American Lung Association's LUNG FORCE initiative unites people impacted by lung cancer and their caregivers across the country to stand together against lung cancer, the leading cancer killer. Increased awareness about lung cancer, more education on lifesaving screening and more research funding are critical to fuel lifesaving breakthroughs. Through education, advocacy and research, LUNG FORCE works to provide hope to all those impacted by the disease and save more lives. Find out more at LUNGFORCE.org.  

CONTACT: Jill Dale, American Lung Association
P: 312-940-7001 E: [email protected]

SOURCE American Lung Association