Cancer is a disease in which certain body cells don't function right, divide very fast, and produce too much tissue that forms a tumor. The lungs, a pair of sponge-like, cone-shaped organs, are part of the body's respiratory system. When we breathe in, the lungs take in oxygen, which our cells need to live and carry out their normal functions. When we breathe out, the lungs get rid of carbon dioxide, which is a waste product of the body's cells. Cancers that begin in the lungs are divided into two major types, non-small cell lung cancer and small cell lung cancer, depending on how the cells look under a microscope. Each type of lung cancer grows and spreads in different ways and is treated differently.

Why should I be concerned about lung cancer?

Did you know that lung cancer kills more women every year than breast cancer? Researchers continue to study the causes of lung cancer and to search for ways to prevent it. But, about 90% of all lung cancer deaths among women are from smoking. Even though we know its effects are harmful, 1 out of every 5 women in the U.S. still smokes. We already know that the best way to prevent lung cancer is to quit (or never start) smoking. The sooner a person quits smoking the better. Even if you have been smoking for many years, it's never too late to benefit from quitting.

Where can I find out more about lung cancer?

The National Cancer Institute (NCI) is the federal government's authority on lung cancer. Contact them at 800-4-CANCER (800-422-6237)

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You can also find out more about lung cancer by contacting the National Women's Health Information Center (800-994-9662)