LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION memorializing Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to
proclaim November 2011, as Lung Cancer Awareness Month in the State of
New York

WHEREAS, Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death for both men
and women, and within every ethnic population, in New York, the United
States and the world, this year killing more Americans than breast,
prostate, colon, liver and kidney cancers combined; and
WHEREAS, In the United States in 2010, an estimated 222,520 people
were diagnosed with lung cancer; and, an estimated 157,300 people died
from lung cancer accounting for 28% of all cancer deaths; and
WHEREAS, In New York in 2010, approximately 13,720 people were diag-
nosed with lung cancer, and it is estimated that 8,720 people passed
away from the disease; and
WHEREAS, For people diagnosed with any stage of lung cancer, the five
year survival rate is nearly 16%, and for the 56% of people who are
diagnosed with advanced disease, the five year survival rate is less
than 5%; and
WHEREAS, Lung cancer causes include smoking, second hand smoke, expo-
sure to toxins and known carcinogens, and genetic abnormalities; and
WHEREAS, The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that
80% of lung cancer cases are diagnosed in people who have quit smoking
or who have never smoked; and
WHEREAS, Lung cancer is a complex disease and treatment options
differ, thus knowing as much as possible about the kind and stage of
lung cancer will help determine the treatment necessary; and
WHEREAS, Increased awareness and coordination among all stakeholders,
including federal and state governments, providers, patient groups,
medical researchers, community leaders and organizations, the public and
businesses, is critical to promote the prevention, diagnosis, and treat-
ment of lung cancer; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim November 2011, as Lung
Cancer Awareness Month in the State of New York; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to the Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of New
York.