With the New Year approaching, many individuals are considering health-focused resolutions. The American Lung Association has provided several tips to help people in Utah maintain their lung health.
One recommendation is to schedule regular check-ups. These appointments can help detect diseases early, even when symptoms are not apparent. During a visit, healthcare providers will assess breathing and address any concerns.
The association also emphasizes quitting smoking as a critical step for improving lung health. They encourage those who smoke, vape, or use tobacco to begin their quit journey in 2025. Resources and support are available at Lung.org/Quit-Smoking or by calling the LungHelpline at 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872). Tobacco remains the leading cause of preventable death in the U.S., and e-cigarettes are not considered a safe alternative for quitting.
Lung cancer screening is another important measure highlighted by the association. "In the U.S., 14 million people are at high risk for lung cancer and are eligible for life-saving lung cancer screening." Early detection through low-dose CT scans can significantly improve survival rates. Those aged 50-80 who smoke or have quit within the past 15 years may be eligible for screening and can take a quiz at SavedByTheScan.org to determine eligibility.
Staying up-to-date on vaccinations is also advised. Receiving COVID-19, flu, and RSV vaccines (if eligible) helps protect both individuals and their communities.
Finally, limiting exposure to air pollutants is crucial for maintaining lung health. Avoiding environments with high pollution levels and testing homes for radon can reduce risks associated with lung irritants. For those with asthma or other respiratory conditions, monitoring daily air quality forecasts at Airnow.gov is recommended.
