I will soon introduce a resolution designating November 2025 as Lung Cancer Awareness Month in Pennsylvania. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in both our Commonwealth and in the nation. While survival and early detection rates have significantly improved, there is still work to be done.

According to the American Lung Association’s recently released 2025 State of Lung Cancer Report, Pennsylvania continues to make meaningful progress in the fight against lung cancer. Our state now ranks 32nd out of 51 for the rate of new lung cancer cases, reflecting a 14% improvement over the past five years. Survival outcomes are also improving, with Pennsylvania ranked 9th out of 39, showing a 27% improvement. Early diagnosis rates have increased by 10%, placing us 18th out of 50, and we stand 17th out of 51 for lung cancer screening rates.

Treatment access has also shown encouraging trends. Pennsylvania ranks 12th out of 49 for surgery as the first course of treatment and 6th out of 49 for the lowest rate of untreated lung cancer patients, meaning most Pennsylvanians diagnosed with lung cancer are receiving the care they need. These improvements demonstrate the positive impact of increased awareness, research, and access to treatment.

However, we still face challenges, ranking 40th for smoking rates and 39th for radon exposure. These remain major risk factors for lung cancer in our communities and contribute to new lung cancer cases each year.

Although more Pennsylvanians are surviving after diagnosis, early detection and treatment rates are still too low. By increasing advocacy and awareness of screenings and biomarker testing, lives will continue to be saved.

I hope you will join me in supporting this important resolution to raise awareness of this devastating disease and to recognize November 2025 as Lung Cancer Awareness Month in Pennsylvania.