Lung cancer is often a fatal diagnosis, killing more women than breast cancer, and yet it is largely ignored. Lung cancer is underfunded because it is stigmatized as a "smoker's disease." However, 15-20% of people with lung cancer NEVER smoked, and by the time they find out they have this disease, it is often in stage IV - terminal.
Why does breast cancer receive over 13,000 dollars in funding for each death occurred from it, while other cancers - such as lung cancer - receive around 1,600?
My mom died of lung cancer (never smoked), and I have a genetic predisposition towards it. Yet CT scans are only recommended for patients with a 30 pack year history. Why is this?
We need to increase the funding towards lung cancer, and remove its stigma as a smokers-only disease.