Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S., and despite its undeniable impact on our nation, the disease often remains in the shadows. It is estimated that over 235,000 Americans will be diagnosed with lung cancer this year.
The 2021 Lung Health Barometer surveyed a nationally representative sample of 4,000 women and men about their awareness and understanding of lung cancer.
Survey findings from the 2021 Lung Health Barometer revealed that:
- 29% of Americans know that lung cancer is the leading cancer killer of women and men, an 8% increase from the 2020 Lung Health Barometer.
- 69% of adults have not spoken with their doctor about their risk for lung cancer and 44% are concerned they might get the disease.
- Although lung cancer is the leading cancer killer of women and men, only 10% of adults understand that lung cancer is among the most likely cancers to affect women while 35% knew that it was among those likely to affect men.
- Only 36% of respondents knew that lung cancer screening is now available for early detection of the disease.
Page last updated: December 16, 2021
