Welcome to 'Crush it with Bev,' where my urgency meets compassion in the fight against lung cancer. In 2024, the gravity of my message is underscored by the significant needs lung cancer faces. Over the past almost five years, I've been fortunate to live well with stage 4 lung cancer, but far too many lives were lost. It's the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. In North America alone, lung cancer surpasses breast, prostate, and colon cancers combined in its toll on human lives.
Lung cancer science is making remarkable strides, especially in genetic testing. It's paving the way for personalized, precise therapies tailored to each patient's unique situation. These targeted therapies extend our lives and give us high-quality lives. Yet, the story is far from complete. Extensive efforts are needed to transform lung cancer into a manageable chronic disease akin to diabetes.
Despite its global impact, lung cancer remains in the shadows, primarily due to its historical association with smoking. Yet other risks contribute to lung cancer. Radon and asbestos exposure, family history, and pollution are examples. Funding is urgently required to pioneer earlier lung cancer screening to enable faster diagnoses and expand the array of treatment options available.
Lung cancer is complex, and not all types have specific therapies. The high cost of scientific equipment and diagnostic tools challenges stretched hospital budgets. I want to break these barriers and propel lung cancer research, education, and patient care advancements.
Your support makes a tangible difference for Sunnybrook's dedicated lung cancer specialists and their patients, including me. Please join our community to improve the story of lung cancer. I'm immensely grateful for your support. Together, we're bringing hope to countless lives. Thank you!