'Hope! Fight! Breathe!' offers latest updates in lung cancer research, treatments

CINCINNATI—Lung cancer is the second most common cancer in the U.S. and is by far the leading cause of cancer death among both men and women, according to the American Cancer Society.

Each year, more people die of lung cancer than of colon, breast and prostate cancers combined.

While smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, around 10 to 15 percent of people diagnosed with lung cancer have never smoked. 

As a way to raise awareness of risks and to discuss the latest in lung cancer research, screening and treatment, the University of Cincinnati (UC) Cancer Institute Lung Cancer Center will host a community event Nov. 10, aimed at educating the public on these topics and more.

“This community-centered symposium, which is offered at no charge, will help to inform patients, their families and even just interested members of the general public about the ways we’re working to fight this disease locally at the UC Cancer Institute as well as a national level,” says Sandra Starnes, MD, co-director of the Lung Cancer Center, professor of surgery at the UC College of Medicine and UC Health thoracic surgeon.

The annual “Hope! Fight! Breathe!” symposium, being held from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 10, at Courtyard by Marriott, 2813 Edwards Rd., by Rookwood Commons off of I-71, will update attendees on the latest in lung cancer screening, evaluation, treatment and survivorship as well as suggested nutrition and healthy living tips. The day’s activities will also include a patient speaker and a panel discussion with experts. 

“This event offers a chance for attendees to come together to learn about this disease, network and offer support to one another,” adds John Morris, MD, co-director of the center, a member of the Cincinnati Cancer Center, professor in the Division of Hematology Oncology at the UC College of Medicine and a UC Health oncologist. “We’re excited for this opportunity to raise awareness about a cancer with such devastating impact and to show that progress that is being made right here in Cincinnati.”