December Letter to the Editor | World AIDS Day

To: Editor

From: Lake County Tobacco-free Coalition

As we observe World AIDS Day (December 1), it’s important to recognize the growing threat of lung cancer among people living with HIV (PLWH). Due to high smoking rates, the cancer-promoting effects of HIV, and longer life expectancy thanks to antiretroviral therapy (ART), lung cancer has become a leading cause of death in this population. For those managing HIV with ART, smoking is a much greater health risk than HIV itself.

The good news: quitting smoking can significantly reduce the risk of lung cancer, improve quality of life, and lower the chances of developing other serious illnesses, such as heart disease and pneumonia.

Lung cancer prevention, particularly through smoking cessation, should be a priority in the comprehensive care of PLWH.

If you or someone you know is ready to quit, support is available. Call 1-800-QUIT-NOW or visit quitnowindiana.com.