Lung Cancer in Maine
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death for both men and women in the United States, leading to more than 150,000 deaths each year.
Maine Ranks
of All US States
Every three and a half minutes someone in the United States will be diagnosed with lung cancer.
More than 1,430 people in Maine are diagnosed with lung cancer each year.
75% of lung cancer cases in Maine are detected late and are often not treatable.
Lung cancer screening and early detection, saves lives.
Know What Increases Lung Cancer Risk
While cigarette smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, it isn’t the only cause.
Smoking
Cigarette smoking is the most important and number one risk factor for lung cancer. About 90% (or 9 out of 10) of all lung cancer deaths in the US are caused by smoking. Even smoking a few cigarettes a day or smoking occasionally increases the risk of lung cancer.*
People who quit smoking reduce their risk of lung cancer and other cancers and improve their overall health. Ten years after you quit smoking, your risk for dying from lung cancer drops by half. Get more information on how to receive help with quitting.
*Centers for Disease Control & Prevention
Radon Gas
Radon is the second-leading cause of lung cancer in Maine. Radon is a colorless, odorless gas. High levels of radon gas naturally occur in Maine soil and gets into the home through the ground and foundation. Radon can also be found in well water.
Read MoreNew Eligibility Guidelines
The new guidelines lower the age to start screening from 55 to 50, and smoking years from 30 to 20.
The Task Force is an independent, volunteer panel of national experts in prevention and evidence-based medicine. Members come from all fields of preventive medicine and primary care and make evidence-based recommendations about preventive services, including screenings, to improve the health of all Americans.
US Preventive Services Task Force Recommendation Statement
What You Can Do
You can take a number of steps to decrease the risk of lung cancer for you and your family.
