Lung Cancer Patients Find Hope Through Promising Resources (NAPSA)—Lung cancer is a growing epidemic and is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. In fact, the lung cancer death rate accounts for more cancer deaths than breast, prostate, and colorectal cancers combined. Despite the widespread occurrence of lung cancer, it is often treated as an “invisible” condition and subsequently overlooked by the media and ignored by friends and family of lung cancer patients. A sense of isolation and fear of the physical demands of treatment often result in lung cancer patients giving up before they begin their fight. In fact, many individuals with lung cancer are so overwhelmed by the diagnosis and the prospect of what treatment might entail that they never seek out the care of an oncologist or cancer specialist. While a diagnosis of lung cancer can be devastating, an oncologist can provide patients with information regarding lung cancer treatments, new treatment options, and resources for support. These specialists are uniquely qualified to work with lung cancer patients to identify the most appropriate treatment course. Now, people with lung cancer have another resource for information and support. The Wellness Community, an organization that provides free emotional support and education to people with cancer across the country, has developed a national educational program called Frankly Speaking About Lung Cancer, which provides a comprehensive lung cancer guide and workshops held nationwide. The program provides people affected by lung cancer with upto-date information on the latest treatment options from expert oncologists and physicians and equips patients and their families to navigate the complex treatment choices of surgery, radiation, chemotherapy and newer targeted-therapy options to determine the most suitable course of treatment. “This program fills an unmet need for a comprehensive resource of up-to-date information on living with lung cancer. Attendees will learn how to approach treatment decisions, manageside effects and maintain quality of life,” said Kim Thiboldeaux, president and chief executive officer of The Wellness Community. “We want to give peo- ple living with lung cancer the encouragement to lead active, fulfilling lives.” The Wellness Community partnered with the Alliance for Lung Cancer Advocacy, Support, and Education (ALCASE) and CancerCare to develop the content for the Frankly Speaking About Lung Cancer program. For more information about the Frankly Speaking About Lung Cancer program or to receive a copy of the Frankly Speaking About Lung Cancer resource guide, please visit www.thewell nesscommunity.org or call 1-888793-WELL(9355).
