World Lung Cancer Day is annually observed across the globe on 1st August to create awareness about lung cancer, one of the most common forms of cancer across the globe and the preventive measure against lung cancer. The day also aims to promote overall lung health.
- Pearl or white is the colour of the Lung Cancer Awareness ribbon.
- The month of November is observed as Lung Cancer Awareness Month.
Background:
The World Lung Cancer campaign was first organised by the Forum of International Respiratory Societies (FIRS) in collaboration with the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC) and the American College of Chest Physicians.
Note:
The IASLC is the only global network dedicated to the study and elimination of lung cancer and other lung-related diseases.
Key Points:
i.According to the World Health Organisation(WHO), lung cancer accounts for more than 2 million deaths per year.
ii.As of 2020, Lung cancer is the 2nd most common form of cancer across the globe and the leading cause of cancer deaths.
iii.Lung cancer kills more women than breast cancer and more men than prostate cancer.
Causes of Cancer:
i.Cancer arises from the transformation of normal cells into tumour cells which progress from pre-cancerous lesion to tumour.
ii.This may be a result of the interaction between genetic factors and 3 categories of external agents – physical, chemical and biological carcinogens.
Lung Cancer in India:
i.Lung cancer constitutes around 6.9% of all new cancer cases in India and 9.3% of all cancer-related deaths.
ii.Lung cancer in India is attributed to the use of tobacco ad air pollution which are the leading risk factors of Cancer.
iii.Around 70% of the cancers in India are potentially preventable through modifiable risk factors.
About International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC):
President– Dr. Tetsuya Mitsudomi(Japan)
Founded in 1974
Headquarters– Denver, Colorado
