The South Carolina Department of Public Health is urging state residents to stop smoking and start early screening for lung cancer, in recognition of Lung Cancer Awareness Month.

Lung cancer is the leading cause of death among cancer patients in South Carolina withone in four cancer deaths in the state being attributed to it. One in eight South Carolinians smoke, placing them and their family members at risk for cancer.

Tobacco use accounts for approximately 80 to 90% of all lung cancer cases. Those whoare exposed to secondhand smoke are 20 to 30% more likely to develop lung cancer,according to the press release.

The Department of Public Health has many different resources to help residents quit smoking including the S.C. Tobacco Quitline at 1-800-QUIT-NOW, low-dose CT scans tohelp those at an increased risk detect lung cancer in its early stages and a multitude ofcommunity outreach initiatives.

The DPH is encouraging employers to help support tobacco cessation at the workplaceusing the CDC’s WorkHealth Program, among others.

“Workplaces can be a powerful platform for change,” Sonya Younger, DPH’s Director ofComprehensive Cancer Control Unit and Work Health trainer, said in the press release.“Employers have a unique opportunity to support employees in quitting smoking, whichultimately enhances the health of their workforce and positively impacts ourcommunity.”

DPH is encouraging all South Carolinians to participate in Lung Cancer Awareness Monthby learning more about the risks and takingsteps toward prevention