Listen to your breath!
November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month. On this occasion, the H.U.B. is offering a wide range of activities to inform and engage both the public and healthcare professionals in preventing this disease. Read more.
Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers and the leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Why? Because it is often detected too late due to a lack of early symptoms. Raising awareness among the public and healthcare professionals can therefore help achieve earlier diagnoses and save lives!
That’s why, during Lung Cancer Awareness Month, H.U.B. experts are mobilising to offer a series of activities designed to help you learn more about your lungs, the diseases that can affect them (such as cancer and COPD), existing treatments and care options, and above all, how to protect your respiratory health.
Programme – Lung Cancer Awareness Month
Tuesday, November 4, 2025
Patient Workshop: Overcoming Barriers to Lung Cancer Diagnosis
A space for discussion and reflection on the obstacles to diagnosis and management of lung cancer. This workshop allows patients to share their experiences and better understand the factors influencing their decisions. The goal is to identify concrete ways to provide more personalized and timely support that meets patients’ needs and personal objectives.
From November 10 to 14, 2025
Exhibition: “Giant Lungs”
Visit the Jules Bordet Institute to discover Giant Lungs, a large inflatable structure featuring an interactive educational path that explains how the lungs work, their role, and the impact of pollution, tobacco, and other factors on respiratory health. “Giant Lungs” also offers interactive quizzes, fun breathing assessments, and the opportunity to talk with pulmonology and oncology specialists! In partnership with All.Can Belgium.
Wednesday, November 19, 2025
Information and Respiratory Health Assessment Booth
On the occasion of World COPD Day, the pulmonology and thoracic oncology teams will welcome you at both the Jules Bordet Institute and Erasme Hospital to assess your lung health and answer your questions. Adventurous patients (whose health allows it) will also have the chance to take part in a cycling challenge alongside H.U.B healthcare staff!
Tuesday, November 25, 2025
Seminar for general practitioners
A session dedicated to the key role of general practitioners in the early detection of lung cancer. This seminar offers an update on warning signs and care pathways. Objective: strengthen clinical vigilance, patient dialogue, and coordination for faster, more effective management.
Program and registration details to follow. Program & resgitration (in French)
About Lung Cancer
Lung cancer occurs when certain lung cells change and multiply uncontrollably, forming an abnormal mass called a tumor.
There are two main types of lung cancer:
- Non-small cell lung cancer (the most common, about 80% of cases).
- Small cell lung cancer (rarer but more aggressive).
Prevalence in Belgium
- Lung cancer is among the most common cancers in Belgium.
- About 9,000 new cases are diagnosed each year.
- It is the leading cause of cancer death, all types combined.
- Main risk factor: tobacco, but other causes include exposure to radon, air pollution, passive smoking, and family history.
Symptoms
- Persistent or changing cough
- Coughing up blood
- Chest pain or shortness of breath
- Hoarseness
- Unintentional weight loss, fatigue
- Repeated lung infections (bronchitis, pneumonia)
| Note: Having these symptoms doesn’t necessarily mean cancer, but it’s important to see a doctor if they persist. |
