Code Blue for Lung Cancer, public service campaign A national public service campaign, Code Blue for Lung Cancer, highlights the disturbing message that the nation's number-one cancer killer might not be what people customarily think. Doctors, TV programs and the news focus on a variety of cancers but often overlook lung cancer because of the stigma associated with the disease, or the common, but not fully accurate belief that lung cancer is brought about by people choosing to smoke. With November being Lung Cancer Awareness Month, Legacy is looking to change attitudes and increase awareness of lung cancer's serious toll in our country. The Code Blue campaign, which Legacy created in partnership with the National Association of Broadcasters, is a comprehensive national effort to raise awareness about preventing lung cancer and increasing survival rates for those struggling with it. Code Blue includes a 30-minute documentary — directed by Oscar-winning documentary filmmaker Gerardine Wurzberg, that explores the devastating impact of lung cancer on four families, and discusses how to reduce lung cancer deaths, primarily through early diagnosis and by quitting smoking. The campaign, available in both English and Spanish, also includes radio and television public service announcements, a guidebook for local broadcasters and an accompanying online component (www.americanlegacy.org/codeblue). More than 85 percent of people diagnosed with lung cancer are current or former smokers, whom many perceive as having had the power to avoid a lung cancer diagnosis if only they had been able to quit. However, research shows two things: that nicotine is highly addictive, and that while 70 percent of smokers want to quit, many lack the tools and resources to quit for good. Smokers trying to quit can call 1-800-QUITNOW for information and to access local services in their area.