CHRISTUS Health is recognizing World Lung Cancer Day by encouraging greater awareness of lung cancer risk factors, symptoms and the importance of early detection through recommended screenings.

According to the American Cancer Society, lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States, accounting for about one in every five cancer deaths nationwide.

“Lung cancer often does not cause noticeable symptoms until the disease has progressed, which is why screening and early detection are so important,” said Dr. Timothy Danish, cardiothoracic surgeon and director of the Lung Nodule Program at CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System. “When lung cancer is found early, patients typically have more treatment options and better outcomes. We encourage anyone who may be at increased risk to talk with their physician about whether lung cancer screening is right for them.”

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends annual low-dose CT Scan screening 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. These scans will identify abnormal nodules before symptoms appear, offering more treatment options.

Common signs and symptoms of lung cancer may include:

• Coughing up blood
• Shortness of breath
• Chest discomfort
• Hoarseness
• Loss of appetite
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue
• Frequent respiratory infections, including bronchitis or pneumonia

For more information about lung cancer, visit our website.

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