FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 7, 2024
City Media Contact: Stephanie Mkhlian
Email: SMkhlian@GlendaleCA.gov
Phone (818) 550-4424
Glendale City Council Declares May 6th to 12th as Lung Cancer Action Week
GLENDALE, CA – The Glendale City Council will issue a proclamation tonight designating May 6th to 12th as Lung Cancer Action Week, joining hands with communities nationwide in the fight against lung cancer. This observance, accompanied by the Turquoise Takeover initiative, aims to raise awareness and support for those affected by lung cancer.
Lung Cancer Action Week and Turquoise Takeover urge Americans to unite against lung cancer by wearing turquoise attire and sharing selfies on social media platforms, emphasizing the power of storytelling to shed light on the impact of lung cancer.
LUNG FORCE, an initiative, brings together individuals and caregivers impacted by lung cancer, advocating for greater awareness, research, and support. Through its efforts in education, advocacy, and research, LUNG FORCE strives to reduce diagnoses and improve outcomes for those battling the disease. Since its inception in 2014, LUNG FORCE has raised over $30 million for vital lung cancer research, marking a 286% increase in its research commitment.
In California, while early diagnosis rates are below the national average, surgical cancer treatment surpasses the national rate by a significant margin. However, the effectiveness of screening hinges on broader participation from the high-risk population, which remains low in California.
“Our city's dedication to promoting lung health extends beyond this initiative, as demonstrated by Glendale’s Fresh Air Ordinance adopted over a decade ago to limit exposure to secondhand smoke. By coming together, we can raise awareness and empower individuals to get early screenings with many of the medical community partners in Glendale and beyond”, said Mayor Elen Asatryan.
To underscore its support, the City of Glendale will illuminate City Hall in turquoise beginning on May 7th symbolizing unity in the fight against lung cancer.
The American Lung Association and the City of Glendale advocate seven actionable steps to contribute to the fight against lung cancer:
- Wear turquoise attire from May 6th to 12th and engage in conversations to raise awareness.
- Participate in the American Lung Association’s I Wear Turquoise Campaign starting today through June 30th. For more information: Frances.Mojica@Lung.org
- Share personal stories to raise awareness and inspire hope.
- Undergo lung cancer screening if eligible.
- Test homes for radon, a known carcinogen.
- Stay informed about the latest educational resources on lung cancer.
- Donate to the American Lung Association advance efforts towards a world free of lung cancer. Contact: Frances.Mojica@Lung.org
###
About the American Lung Association
The American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease through education, advocacy and research. The work of the American Lung Association is focused on four strategic imperatives: to defeat lung cancer; to champion clean air for all; to improve the quality of life for those with lung disease and their families; and to create a tobacco-free future. For more information about the American Lung Association, which has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and is a Platinum-Level GuideStar Member, call 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872) or visit: Lung.org. To support the work of the American Lung Association, find a local event at Lung.org/events.
About Glendale
Known as the “Jewel City,” Glendale is the fourth largest city of Los Angeles County. With a population of more than 200,000, Glendale is a thriving cosmopolitan city that is rich in history, culturally diverse, and offers nearly 50 public parks, and easy access to a municipal airport. It is the home to a vibrant business community, with major companies in healthcare, entertainment, manufacturing, retail, and banking.
