If you’ve been putting off getting your lung cancer screening, or haven’t gone because you think you won’t qualify for one, it’s time to schedule one now. Current statistics for lung cancer are alarming, especially when screenings and early detection can greatly improve survival rates when the cancer is caught at a treatable stage.
What You May Not Know About Lung Cancer
Statistics provided by the American Cancer Society show that in cancer deaths, lung cancer has the highest numbers with over 350 deaths per day. That is more than pancreatic, prostate, and breast cancer combined. Despite this, the American Lung Association reports that only 5.8% of eligible Americans have been screened for lung cancer.
These numbers are concerning, and highlight how underutilized lung cancer screenings are. It is estimated that approximately 8 million Americans are considered high risk for lung cancer.
Between 80% and 90% of lung cancer deaths are linked to smoking, but lung cancer can still happen in people who have never smoked in their lifetime. Exposure to secondhand smoke, air pollution, diesel exhaust, asbestos, arsenic, and radon, a naturally-occurring radioactive gas that can get into homes and buildings, can all contribute to lung cancer in non-smokers. Family history of lung cancer or DNA mutation can also cause lung cancer among non-smokers.
“Lung cancer screening is very important. Appropriate lung cancer screening can detect lung cancer earlier in the disease course when it is more easily treatable. Screening is especially useful in high-risk individuals such as heavy smokers. Proper screening can lead to prompt diagnosis and interventions, improving outcomes and survival.”
Lung Cancer Screening at Catholic Health
LDCT screenings can improve the likelihood of surviving 5 years or more if lung cancer is caught before it spreads. Our partners at Catholic Health offer LDCT screenings at many of their facilities across WNY, so you can get screened at a location convenient for you.
When you come to one of our partner facilities for a screening, the specialists use advanced state-of-the-art imaging equipment to provide comprehensive evaluations. We have the latest CT scanner technology available, as well as a robotic-assisted bronchoscopy platform that allows surgeons to obtain tissue for biopsies from deep within the lung, which normally is too narrow and difficult to navigate. This technology allows us to provide patients with a faster and more precise diagnosis, so they can begin treatment as soon as possible.
Don’t wait until it’s too late, get a screening and expert diagnosis when treatment is still effective.
Schedule a Visit with Dr. Edd
Dr. Thomas J. Edd is a board-certified doctor who specializes in pulmonology. Dr. Edd sees patients at 3041 Orchard Park Rd in Orchard Park, NY. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Edd, call (716) 627-8100.
