Our Commitment to Improving Failing Grades

LCA-GA's mission is to lead the movement to reverse decades of stigma and neglect by empowering those with or at risk for the disease, elevating awareness and changing public health policy.

LCA-GA INTENDS TO DO THE FOLLOWING:

Increase state support for lung cancer research funding

LCA-GA will secure at least 1% of the Master Settlement Agreement (MSA) for lung cancer research and early detection. We will amend legislation permitting state taxpayers to donate to lung cancer causes on their state tax form, as is currently possible for breast, prostate and ovarian cancers. LCA-GA will support Georgia Cancer Coalition's efforts to fund lung cancer projects.

Secure state support for early detection

LCA-GA will pursue funding for a pilot lung cancer early detection program using CT scans for those at high risk. We will develop standards and guidelines using the latest technology to ensure those at risk are scanned by institutions with extensive scanning experience using appropriate follow-up protocols with quality assurance measures in place.

Strengthen strategic alliances

LCA-GA will strengthen its existing partnerships with The Georgia Cancer Coalition, The Cancer Survivor Leadership Council, The Center for Health Transformation, Wellstar Kennestone Hospital, Emory Winship Cancer Institute, St. Joseph's Hospital and other organizations committed to the lung cancer cause. We will ensure public-private partnerships to fund advocacy and research, as was similarly done for breast and prostate cancers.

Enhance patient support

LCA-GA will educate and support Georgia lung cancer patients, survivors, caregivers and families by providing information on the best and latest treatment options and all the information needed to make important treatment decisions. We will inform patients and caregivers about clinical trials as a treatment option.

Educate the public

LCA-GA will secure permanent legislation declaring November Lung Cancer Awareness Month. We will produce an annual Report Card on Lung Cancer and organize Georgia grassroots efforts to raise awareness and public support about who is at risk for lung cancer and what they can do to protect themselves.

Reduce youth smoking

LCA-GA will help decrease the number of youth smokers through prevention and cessation efforts and confront tobacco companies at every level to prevent addiction by Georgia youths. We will educate youth about cigarettes and lung cancer by speaking in schools