Importance of Lung Cancer Screening

November is Lung Cancer Screening month. The biggest risk factor to lung cancer is smoking. Fortunately, the most effective way to reduce your chances of lung cancer is to quit smoking. Although we have been able to reduce lung cancer rates, it still remains the 2nd most common cancer in the United States. In 2022 alone, there have been approximately 235,000 new lung cancer cases with 130,000 deaths. It is the leading cause of death amongst all types of cancer, being responsible for almost 25% of all cancer deaths. Therefore, screening for lung cancer is essential, so we can catch it at an earlier stage.

Screening for lung cancer is very simple. It involves a low-dose CT scan of your chest. This is done on an annual basis for those that meet criteria. Screenings should also be covered by most insurance carriers. Criteria for lung cancer screening includes all adults aged between 50-80 years old who have a pack-a-day smoking history and either currently smoke or have quit within the last 15 years.

However, signs of lung cancer can be difficult to detect. Some of the symptoms related to lung cancer include persistent cough that does not go away, significant shortness of breath and wheezing, unexplained weight loss, fatigue or even coughing up blood. If you or your loved one is exhibiting any of the signs above, it is highly recommended that you see your Norman Regional healers about getting screened for lung cancer. In addition, Norman Regional also offers a combined heart and lung scan for just $79.

For more information, contact Dr. Krishna Vedala's Norman Regional’s Primary Care – South OKC clinic at 405-912-3400.