New York turns turquoise for lung cancer Awareness during 'Turquoise Takeover'

American Lung Association illuminates buildings & landmarks in turquoise, shares stories of those impacted to raise awareness of lung cancer

American Lung Association Press Release

The American Lung Association is turning New York state turquoise this May 5-11, to raise awareness about lung cancer, honor those impacted, and encourage residents to take action to help end the disease.

The annual Lung Cancer Action Week and “Turquoise Takeover” celebration unites America to stand together to end lung cancer. Each year, the American Lung Association turns the nation turquoise – the signature color of LUNG FORCE – by illuminating buildings and landmarks across the U.S., encouraging the public to wear turquoise, share their support on social media and highlighting the stories of those impacted by lung cancer to inspire hope and save lives.

Here in New York, the Lung Association is illuminating major landmarks and buildings turquoise, including Empire State Plaza, Niagara Falls and One World Trade Center.

“In 2025 alone, it is estimated that 12,770 New York state residents will be diagnosed with lung cancer. But there is hope,” said Erica Masin, executive director for the American Lung Association. “Thanks to advancements in early detection, treatment and research, the five-year survival rate has improved by 44% over the past decade. Raising awareness and funds for lung cancer research is more important than ever, and we encourage our community to get involved in ‘Turquoise Takeover.’”

There are six ways to take action this week:

1. Register to join the LUNG FORCE Walk New York City, coming up on May 17 at the South Street Seaport, or create a DIY fundraiser to benefit those affected by lung cancer
2. Share your lung cancer story to raise awareness and inspire hope
3. Get screened for lung cancer if you are eligible
4. Test your home for radon
5. Learn about the latest educational information on lung cancer
6. Donate to help achieve a world free of lung cancer

Since 2014, LUNG FORCE has raised over $32 million for lifesaving lung cancer research, expanding its research commitment by 140%. Through education, advocacy and research, LUNG FORCE is working to ensure that fewer people are diagnosed and those living with the disease live longer.

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer deaths, with someone diagnosed approximately every two minutes in the U.S. Thankfully, survival rates have significantly increased, aided by improved early detection through screening and more than 65 new FDA-approved treatments since 2016.

To learn more and get involved during Lung Cancer Action Week and “Turquoise Takeover,” visit LUNGFORCE.org.

The American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease through education, advocacy and research. The work of the American Lung Association is focused on four strategic imperatives: to defeat lung cancer; to champion clean air for all; to improve the quality of life for those with lung disease and their families; and to create a tobacco-free future. For more information about the American Lung Association, call 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872) or visit Lung.org. To support the work of the American Lung Association, find a local event at Lung.org/events.

The American Lung Association's LUNG FORCE initiative unites people impacted by lung cancer and their caregivers across the country to stand together against lung cancer, the leading cause of cancer deaths. Increased awareness about lung cancer, more education on lifesaving screening and more research funding are critical to fuel lifesaving breakthroughs. Through education, advocacy and research, LUNG FORCE works to provide hope to all those impacted by the disease and save more lives. Find out more at LUNGFORCE.org.