In Utah, 1 in 3 homes have high levels of radon gas, and radon is the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. Radon can be easily detected with a test, but if it goes undetected for a prolonged period of time, it can cause serious, and sometimes terminal, health issues.
Getting a lung cancer diagnosis is scary enough, but did you know it can impact more than just your physical health? We’re here to educate Utahns on the broad impact a lung cancer diagnosis can have on one’s life so you can better protect yourself and your loved ones.
The financial impact of lung cancer
We all know medical bills can get incredibly expensive in the United States, but the financial impact of cancer goes far beyond hospital bills. When someone gets a cancer diagnosis, they often have to take time off work, buy medical supplies, pay for transportation, and so much more. It’s important to recognize the financial cost of cancer goes far beyond medical bills—and can cost thousands of additional dollars.
Utahradon.org team member Kerri Robbins, was diagnosed with lung cancer after discovering her home had extremely high radon levels. Her medical care costs $16,000 a month. “I wish I had known about radon. A simple free test could have prevented my diagnosis. Please test your home.” See Kerri’s story here.
The social impact of lung cancer
When undergoing cancer treatment, individuals often can’t interact with the world as they once did. Chemotherapy and radiation can both impact your immune system, making you more susceptible to viruses and bacteria. Additionally, treatments can fatigue patients, reducing the amount of energy they have to spend time with loved ones.
The emotional impact of cancer
Cancer is not just a physical condition—it’s emotional for the patient and those who care for and about the patient. In addition to therapy, finding a cancer support group near you can be helpful for sharing your experience with others and receiving support. The University of Utah has in-person and virtual support groups for cancer patients. You can also find groups online and at medical facilities near you.
You can protect yourself with a simple radon test. Click here to get a free radon test today!
