The American Lung Association in Florida is set to turn Orlando turquoise in an effort to raise awareness about lung cancer and rally residents to take action to combat the disease. The initiative falls during Lung Cancer Action Week (May 6-12) and marks the 10th anniversary of LUNG FORCE, a nationwide movement dedicated to ending lung cancer.
"In 2024 alone, it is estimated that more than 18,500 Floridians will be diagnosed with lung cancer. But there is hope," expressed Rick Ramnath, MD, emphasizing the importance of awareness and fundraising in the fight against lung cancer. Ramnath, the immediate past chair of the Lung Association’s Central Florida Board, highlighted the significant progress made in early diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship of lung cancer.
As part of the commemoration, several cities including Melbourne, Rockledge, Palm Bay, Malabar, and Brevard County have issued proclamations for Lung Cancer Action Week, urging residents to educate themselves about lung cancer, its risk factors, early detection, and to take action.
The LUNG FORCE Run/Walk, scheduled for this Saturday at Baldwin Park and presented by AdventHealth, will see over 400 lung health advocates don turquoise attire to support the cause. The event aims to bring together individuals of all athletic abilities for a fundraiser along a new route by Lake Baldwin.
Through its efforts in education, advocacy, and research, LUNG FORCE continues to strive for fewer diagnoses and improved longevity for those living with lung cancer. Since its inception in 2014, LUNG FORCE has raised over $30 million for vital lung cancer research, marking a substantial 286% increase in its research commitment.
Lung cancer, being the leading cause of cancer-related deaths, prompts the call for action. Improved survival rates in the last decade have been attributed to enhanced early detection through screening and advancements in research, which have led to the approval of more than 50 new lung cancer treatments by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration since 2016.
To learn more about how to participate in Lung Cancer Action Week and contribute to the mission of ending lung cancer, visit LUNGFORCE.org.
