20 Million Americans Now Eligible for Free Lung Cancer Screenings
The American Cancer Society and Color Health have launched a programme that qualifies around 20 million Americans for free annual lung cancer screenings. This initiative aims to boost early detection and survival rates for the disease, which currently sees only 26.6% of cases caught in the early stages.
Lung cancer screening is now recommended yearly for individuals aged 50 to 80 who have a significant smoking history. This includes those who currently smoke or have quit within the last 15 years, with at least 20 pack-years of smoking history. The routine use of low-dose CT scans (LDCT) is the only recommended screening test for lung cancer. Early detection with LDCT scans can decrease lung cancer mortality by 14% to 20% in high-risk groups.
While screening carries risks such as low radiation exposure and false positives, it significantly improves survival rates. When lung cancer is caught early, before it spreads, the likelihood of surviving for 5 or more years jumps to 60%. This is a stark contrast to late-stage diagnoses. If a screening test shows something unusual, further investigation may be required.
The expansion of free lung cancer screenings to 20 million Americans is a significant step towards improving early detection and survival rates. With early detection, lung cancer mortality can be reduced, and more lives can be saved. However, it's crucial to understand the risks and benefits of screening, and to follow up on any atypical results.
Read also:
- Overweight women undergoing IVF have a 47% higher chance of conceiving naturally post-weight loss
- Bonsai Trees from Evergreen Species: Exploring Growth Characteristics & Distinct Qualities
- What temperatures may make walking your canine companion uncomfortable?
- Title: Information About Beovu: Potency, Form, Usage, and Additional Details
