In recognition of Lung Cancer Awareness Month, CHRISTUS Health is promoting Saturday clinic hours for lung cancer screenings throughout November to make early detection more accessible for those at risk.

 

“Early detection is key to improving outcomes for patients with lung cancer,” said Dr. Deepika Ralla, oncologist with CHRISTUS Cancer Center in Shreveport. “By offering screenings on Saturdays, we’re removing some barriers and making it easier for people to prioritize their lung health.”

 

Lung cancer is the second most common cancer in both men and women in the United States and remains the leading cause of cancer death, according to the American Cancer Society. It accounts for about one in five cancer deaths nationwide.

 

Current recommendations are for annual lung cancer screenings for adults ages 50 to 80 who currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years and have a 20-pack-year smoking history.

 

“We use a low-dose CT scan to screen patients,” Ralla said. “It’s a non-invasive imaging test that provides detailed pictures of the lungs and can detect cancer before symptoms appear.”

 

Common symptoms of lung cancer include:

“Smoking is the leading risk factor for lung cancer,” Ralla said. “We also encourage patients to maintain a healthy lifestyle and establish care with a primary care physician to assess their need for screening.”

 

A physician’s order is required for lung cancer screenings. Patients should contact their primary care provider to determine eligibility and obtain the necessary order.

 

Saturday lung cancer screenings are available at the following CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier locations:

 

·     CHRISTUS Highland Medical Center
1453 E. Bert Kouns Industrial Loop
Shreveport, LA 71105

 

·     CHRISTUS Bossier Emergency Hospital
2531 Viking Drive
Bossier City, LA 71111

 

To learn more about lung cancer, visit our website.