#United States #Bethesda #Lung Cancer #LUNGevity Foundation #Michael Gieske

LUNGevity Foundation Welcomes Dr. Michael Gieske to Its Board of Directors

The LUNGevity Foundation, a prominent nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing lung cancer research and improving access to screening and treatment options, proudly announces the appointment of Dr. Michael Gieske to its Board of Directors. Dr. Gieske, who is the Director of Lung Cancer Screening at St. Elizabeth Healthcare, brings to the board over thirty years of medical expertise and a profound commitment to promoting early detection and advocating for patients impacted by lung cancer.

Dr. Gieske has spent a lifetime working towards creating a future where lung cancer can be diagnosed early and treated effectively. He has been instrumental in building one of the nation's leading lung cancer screening programs at St. Elizabeth Healthcare, showcasing his unwavering belief that awareness, access, and action can lead to the saving of lives.

Andrea Ferris, President and CEO of LUNGevity Foundation, expressed her enthusiasm about Dr. Gieske's appointment, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome Michael to the LUNGevity Board. His hands-on experience in establishing a nationally recognized screening protocol, combined with his relentless advocacy for patients and changes in policy, enhances our mission.” Dr. Gieske himself shared his excitement about joining the board, emphasizing LUNGevity's role in redefining the implications of a lung cancer diagnosis through innovative research, advocacy, and dedication to supporting patients and families.

The commitment to improving lung cancer outcomes is reflected in Dr. Gieske's vision of fostering an environment where early detection becomes a universal standard. He believes that LUNGevity is at the forefront of this transformation, making lung cancer a survivable disease for everyone with access to the necessary resources and support.

LUNGevity Foundation's Board of Directors comprises a diverse group of leaders from various sectors including business, medicine, law, and advocacy, all united by a shared goal of transforming lung cancer outcomes. Dr. Gieske's addition will not only reinforce the board's clinical expertise but also enhance its capacity to champion early diagnosis and equitable care across the board.

About LUNGevity Foundation

LUNGevity is recognized as the leading organization in the lung cancer sector, striving to redefine what it means to be diagnosed with and live through lung cancer. The foundation prioritizes immediate improvements to quality of life and survivorship for everyone affected by this disease while promoting health equity by addressing disparities in care.

Through comprehensive research initiatives, LUNGevity focuses on innovative approaches to detect lung cancer in its earliest stages when treatment is most effective. Furthermore, the foundation emphasizes advancing new treatment avenues to prolong and improve the lives of individuals diagnosed with lung cancer.

In terms of advocacy, LUNGevity promotes significant collaborations aimed at ensuring equitable access to screening, biomarker testing, and advancements in treatment options. The foundation is committed to educating and empowering communities impacted by lung cancer to help them navigate their healthcare journeys.

For individuals and families affected by lung cancer, LUNGevity offers a wealth of resources including a patient-centric website vetted by medical professionals, personalized support through a toll-free HELPLine, survivor conferences, and tools to locate clinical trials. All initiatives aim to fulfill the organization’s ultimate mission: a world where lung cancer is no longer a death sentence.

LUNGevity Foundation holds a coveted four-star rating from Charity Navigator, underscoring its commitment to transparency and effectiveness. To learn more about LUNGevity and its initiatives, please visit www.LUNGevity.org.

About Lung Cancer Statistics in the US

In the United States, approximately 1 in 18 Americans will face a lung cancer diagnosis in their lifetime. This year alone, more than 226,000 new lung cancer cases are anticipated, with a staggering new diagnosis occurring approximately every 2.3 minutes. Notably, nearly 65% of lung cancer diagnoses occur in individuals with no history of significant tobacco exposure, illustrating the diverse nature of this disease.

Lung cancer leads to more fatalities than the next two deadliest cancers, colorectal and pancreatic combined. While only 28% of lung cancer patients survive five years post-diagnosis, early detection significantly increases this statistic—up to a 65% five-year survival rate when the disease is caught before it spreads.