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Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death in Oregon? That's why net funds raised from Reach the Bridge will go entirely to support the American Lung Association's efforts to defeat lung cancer.   Reach the Bridge is an opportunity to honor lung cancer survivors and pay special tribute to those lost to the disease.   Participants who fundraise for this event are eligible for great prizes and will help fund the research that makes an impact on this devastating disease. The following is additional information regarding lung cancer and about the scope of the work of the American Lung Association:

•  Lung cancer is the leading cancer killer in both men and women. An estimated 215,020 new cases of lung cancer and an estimated 161,840 deaths from lung cancer occurred in the United States during 2008.

•  Smoking is the number one cause of lung cancer. Lung cancer may also be the most tragic cancer because in most cases, it might have been prevented - 87% of lung cancer cases are caused by smoking. Cigarette smoke contains more than 4,000 different chemicals, many of which are proven cancer-causing substances, or carcinogens. Smoking cigars or pipes also increases the risk of lung cancer.

•  Radon is considered to be the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. today and is the number one cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. Radon gas can come up through the soil under a home or building and enter through gaps and cracks in the foundation or insulation, as well as through pipes, drains, walls or other openings. Radon causes between 15,000 and 22,000 lung cancer deaths each year in the United States -- 12% of all lung cancer deaths are linked to radon.

•  Since 1904, the American Lung Association has been making an impact, saving lives, preventing lung disease and improving the quality of life through research, education and advocacy. Here in Oregon, we are the only community health agency dedicated solely to fighting lung disease and promoting lung health. Our programs focus on the areas of asthma, clean air, tobacco prevention, and lung disease.

•  For more information about our programs and how we are fighting for air, please visit the American Lung Association in Oregon website.

By participating in Reach the Bridge you will help the American Lung Association in Oregon fund programs that help prevent lung disease and promote lung health.   These programs include:

•  Protecting Oregonians from secondhand smoke, educating the community and advocating for stronger policies.

•  Offering a new way to stop smoking through its Freedom From Smoking® online smoking cessation clinic. Find out more by visiting the American Lung Association website at www.ffsonline.org.

•  Educating individuals about the dangers of radon gas and how to test your home for it.

•  Funding medical research to find a cure for lung cancer.

To continue our fight, we need your support. By participating in Reach the Bridge and by raising funds, you will help improve the quality of life for over 347,000 Oregonians, including 73,000 children, who struggle to breathe.

Register today and start making an impact!