With the New Year approaching, many are considering health-focused resolutions. The American Lung Association has provided several tips for maintaining lung health in 2025.
Regular medical check-ups are crucial, even when feeling well, as they can help detect diseases early. This is particularly important for lung disease, which may not show symptoms until it becomes serious.
The association urges those who smoke or use tobacco to begin their quit journey this year. "Tobacco remains the number one cause of preventable death in the U.S., and right here at home," according to the American Lung Association. Resources and support are available at Lung.org/Quit-Smoking or by calling 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872). They emphasize that e-cigarettes are not a safe method to quit smoking. Many health insurance plans cover cessation aids and counseling, with open enrollment available until January 15, 2025.
Lung cancer screening is another focus area. In the U.S., 14 million people are at high risk for lung cancer but only a small percentage undergo screening each year. Early detection significantly increases survival rates. Those aged 50-80 who smoke or have quit within the past 15 years should consider taking a quiz at SavedByTheScan.org to determine eligibility for screening.
Staying updated on vaccinations is also recommended. "Get your COVID-19 and flu shots (and RSV if eligible)," advises the association, stressing that vaccination helps protect both individuals and their communities.
Limiting exposure to air pollutants is essential for lung health. Avoiding areas with high pollution levels and testing homes for radon can reduce risks associated with lung cancer. Monitoring daily air quality forecasts can help those with asthma or other concerns take necessary precautions.
