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Recognizing Lung Cancer Awareness Month at Karmanos Cancer Institute

The Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute is taking a proactive stance this November, which is designated as Lung Cancer Awareness Month. The observance aims to educate the public on the importance of early detection, particularly for those at risk of developing lung cancer. With an estimated 226,650 new cases of lung cancer anticipated in 2025, awareness and preventative measures are more crucial than ever.

The Importance of Early Detection

Lung cancer ranks as the second most prevalent cancer in both men and women. Unfortunately, it remains the leading cause of cancer mortality across genders. This grim reality is compounded by the fact that 80-90% of lung cancer fatalities are linked to smoking. Dr. Khalil Choucair, a medical oncologist affiliated with the Karmanos Thoracic Oncology Team, emphasizes that early-stage lung cancer often shows no significant symptoms, making screening paramount for survival rates.

During Lung Cancer Awareness Month, Karmanos encourages both current and former smokers to consider lung cancer screenings to improve early detection. Symptoms that warrant immediate attention include:

• - Persistent cough
• - Coughing up blood
• - Chest pain
• - Unexplained weight loss
• - Shortness of breath
• - Recurrent respiratory infections

Recognizing these symptoms early can lead to timely interventions, significantly improving treatment outcomes.

Screening and Eligibility

Karmanos utilizes a comprehensive lung cancer screening program that begins with an initial consultation to assess individual risk factors. For eligible candidates, low-dose CT scans are employed—these are more effective than traditional X-rays in detecting lung abnormalities. The criteria for screening include men and women aged between 50-80 who are current smokers or have quit within the last 15 years, provided they have at least a 20-pack-year smoking history. Furthermore, Medicare and many commercial insurance plans typically cover these screenings, resulting in minimal out-of-pocket costs for patients.

Dr. Choucair urges current smokers to seek out their primary care physician for a referral, stating, “These screenings help us detect cancer early, which provides patients with more treatment options and a better chance for cure.”

Resources for Quitting Smoking

Smoking is not only a major risk factor for lung cancer but is also associated with numerous other health issues, including various types of cancer and respiratory diseases. Karmanos offers a collection of resources for those looking to quit smoking, emphasizing the importance of seeking assistance. Interested parties can visit karmanos.org/quitsmoking for more information on available support.

Treatment Options at Karmanos

Once diagnosed, patients at Karmanos receive comprehensive care from a multidisciplinary team of specialists focused on lung cancer treatment. This includes cardiothoracic surgeons, radiologists, medical and radiation oncologists, pathologists, and other health professionals who collaboratively devise tailored treatment plans for each patient. Furthermore, the institution actively participates in national and international clinical trials, providing patients access to cutting-edge therapies and innovations in lung cancer treatment.

Choosing Karmanos means you will have a dedicated team of experts committed to helping you navigate your lung cancer journey. “Each specialist on your cancer care team is up to speed on the progress of your disease and collaborates to present you and your family with the best treatment options,” Dr. Choucair explains.

For those interested in learning more about lung cancer screening and treatment services, Karmanos encourages visits to karmanos.org/lungcancerscreening or calling 1-800-KARMANOS.

About Karmanos Cancer Institute

Established as a leader in cancer care and research, the Karmanos Cancer Institute aims to provide transformative treatment options through a commitment to comprehensive care, research, and education. Located in downtown Detroit and part of the McLaren Health Care network, Karmanos has been pivotal in serving the Michigan and northern Ohio communities for over 75 years. With various clinical trials and a partnership with the Wayne State University School of Medicine, Karmanos is dedicated to improving survivorship and advancing new standards of care.

For any inquiries or to learn more, please call 1-800-KARMANOS or visit karmanos.org. Follow Karmanos on social media for updates and shared stories.