Southern Illinois residents die of lung cancer 40 percent more often than those in the rest of the state.

Dr. David Steward of the Southern Illinois University School of Medicine presented the findings of two studies yesterday during a meeting of Southern Illinois Cancer Action Team.

Steward said the rate of being diagnosed with cancer is consistent around the state, but more Southern Illinois residents die of the disease.

Smoking – the leading risk factor for lung cancer – is higher in southern Illinois. Steward said the needs of rural areas should be better addressed.