A lung cancer diagnosis can bring many different feelings. If you feel shame or blame, that is often due to stigma.
Stigma is a set of negative beliefs about a behavior or condition.
It can make you feel uncomfortable if you have a smoking history or if others seem to blame you for getting lung cancer. Stigma can cause stress in relationships. It can also cause people to lose hope, delay or stop treatment, or not seek treatment at all. If this sounds like you, please talk with someone you trust about your feelings.
GO2 for Lung Cancer is committed to fighting lung cancer stigma
We create a safe space for you to learn about lung cancer, treatments, resources, and to connect with others.
Get help today
We are here to help you understand stigma and find support. To learn more about our services and resources, contact our HelpLine.
Why is there a stigma for lung cancer?
Efforts to prevent lung cancer and teach the public about its link to smoking have resulted in negative and sometimes false viewpoints about the disease. Many believed lung cancer was something a person brought on themselves. This is not true.
Lung cancer is very complex and we still have a lot to learn about it. Many factors other than tobacco use increase the risk of lung cancer. These include exposure to radon (a natural gas) and chemicals like asbestos and arsenic.
Anyone with lungs can get lung cancer.
Lung cancer is not your fault
If you have a history of smoking and are dealing with feelings of guilt, remember:
- Most people with a history of smoking started young and became addicted before the brain was mature enough to understand the risk.
- Nicotine in cigarettes is very addictive, in some cases even more so than cocaine or heroin.
- We don’t fully know why some people get lung cancer and others do not.
- We know smoking increases the risk of lung cancer greatly, but most people who smoke are never diagnosed with it.
- About 1 out of 5 people with lung cancer have no history of tobacco use.
Types of stigmas related to lung cancer
Lung cancer stigma can take many forms and come from different sources—family, friends, co-workers, healthcare team members, and even yourself.
Perceived stigma
You may feel this when others say or do things that seem to blame you for having lung cancer. Their reactions often come from sadness, anger, concern, or a lack of information.
Internalized stigma or self-stigma
Feelings of regret, guilt, or blame yourself for the diagnosis. This is more common in those who have a history of smoking or currently smoke.
Constrained disclosure
This is a response to perceived and/or internalized stigma. You may not want to tell people you have lung cancer, or you may feel less like being around others.
Create a “teachable moment”
Share facts about lung cancer and help educate others.
Tell your story
Give a face to lung cancer by showing it can affect anyone. This includes mothers, fathers, children, and people of all ages, religions, races, lifestyles, and those with and without a smoking history.
Find a healthcare team that supports you
You have the right to compassionate care from your healthcare team. If you don’t feel you’re receiving it, find a new doctor or cancer center.
Be honest about your feelings
If someone says something hurtful, tell them how you feel and explain that those with lung cancer deserve the same understanding and care as those with other conditions.
Volunteer with GO2
History has shown that stigma can be reduced and you can help help raise awareness and advocate for our community.
Connect with people
Connect with people who understand through support groups or our Phone Buddy program.
Learn more facts about lung cancer
Frequently asked questions
Where can I find more resources and support?
Contact the GO2 HelpLine at 1-800-298-2436 or email support@go2.org to connect with caring and highly trained staff who listen, answer your questions, and provide support. We offer many free programs and educational resources to meet your needs.
How can lung cancer stigma affect my care?
Stigma can make people reluctant to get a lung cancer screening, seek care after diagnosis, or talk about symptoms. It may also affect how healthcare team members interact with you. That's why it's important to find a team that treats you with respect and advocates for your care needs.
What should I do if I feel like lung cancer stigma is affecting my healthcare?
You deserve respectful, high-quality care. If you feel like stigma is affecting your care, consider finding a new doctor, cancer center, or getting a second opinion. GO2 can help you find a second opinion through our HelpLine 1-800-298-2436 or support@go2.org.