Many people diagnosed with lung cancer feel guilt, shame and self-blame, in addition to the many burdens of having a life-threatening illness. About 85% of people diagnosed with lung cancer are current or former smokers leading to the stigma that people with lung cancer are somewhat responsible for their illness.

Research shows this stigma is detrimental to the health and well-being of cancer patients and their families.

Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana has invited Lisa Carter-Harris, Ph.D., a behavioral scientist with the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center to speak with local cancer patients, caregivers and medical professionals. She will share her research to help patients communicate more effectively with healthcare providers.

Her lecture will cover cancer prevention, treatment decision-making, improved communication with providers and decreasing inequities in care. This seminar is free and open to the public.

WHAT: Lung Cancers: Reducing the Stigma and Improving Patient Outcomes

WHERE: Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana

Brotherhood Office Park, 6316 Mutual Drive, Fort Wayne, IN 46825

WHEN: 2 to 3:30 p.m., Friday, July 26, 2019

RSVP: Ann Hathaway at (260)484-9560 or ahathaway@cancer-services.org

About Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana

Cancer Services is celebrating 75 years of helping local people affected by cancer. The local non-profit serves eleven counties in Northeast Indiana, including Adams, Allen, DeKalb, Huntington, Kosciusko, LaGrange, Noble, Steuben, Wabash, Wells and Whitley. Its mission is to enhance the quality of life of those affected by cancer by providing meaningful resources, information, and compassionate assistance. Each year, nearly 4,000 people with cancer and their families receive help at Cancer Services. The programs and services alleviate the devastating burden of cancer and are provided at no cost to clients thanks to the generous support of donors. For more information, visit www.cancer-services.org.