Lung cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in the United States. According to the American Cancer Society, lung cancer accounts for approximately 23% of all cancer deaths, making it a critical public health issue. However, early detection through low-dose CT lung cancer screening can significantly improve survival rates, offering hope for those at risk.
The Importance of Screening
Low-dose CT (LDCT) lung cancer screening has proven to reduce mortality from lung cancer by detecting tumors at earlier, more treatable stages. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends LDCT screening for individuals who meet the following criteria:
- Aged 50 to 80 years
- Have a history of smoking 20 pack-years or more
- Smoked 1 pack a day for 20 years
- Smoked half (0.5) a pack a day for 40 years
- Are current smokers or have quit within the last 15 years
- Have no signs or symptoms of lung cancer
These guidelines are designed to help catch lung cancer early, especially in high-risk populations. Early-stage lung cancer often does not cause symptoms, making routine screening essential for those at risk.
Dr. Jeffery Mazer, Pulmonologist at Lovelace Medical Center, explains “Lung cancer is treatable when it is detected early. This is why it’s so important to do regular screenings with your healthcare provider, especially if you currently smoke or have been a smoker in the past.”
Advanced Technology: The Ion by Intuitive Surgical
In addition to screening, Lovelace Medical Center offers state-of-the-art diagnostic tools like the Ion Endoluminal System by Intuitive Surgical. This advanced robotic-assisted platform allows for minimally invasive lung biopsies, enabling precise access to hard-to-reach lung nodules. The Ion system provides enhanced accuracy, which is critical for early detection and diagnosis of lung cancer.
“The Ion system’s precision and flexibility allows us to navigate through the lung to more accurately biopsy the tissue, meaning we can provide earlier diagnoses than we could before on hard-to-reach nodules, says Dr. Mazer. This new technology makes it easier for us to care for patients with lung abnormalities, detect cancer earlier and improve outcomes for our patients.”
Comprehensive Lung Care at Lovelace
At Lovelace Medical Center, our comprehensive team of lung health experts includes pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and a dedicated lung program coordinator who will oversee your next steps in care. Whether you're undergoing screening or managing a diagnosis, this team will guide you through the process, including connecting you with resources for smoking cessation to support your overall lung health.
Additionally, Lovelace’s cancer services are available from screening through treatment and beyond, ensuring that lung cancer patients receive continuous, coordinated care at every stage of their journey.
Take Action: How to Get Screened
If you or someone you know meets the criteria for lung cancer screening, take a proactive step toward lung health by contacting the Lovelace Medical Center Lung Program by calling 505-727-3086.
With lung cancer, early detection can make all the difference. Don’t wait—get screened today and take control of your health.