The Key to Reducing Lung Cancer in Georgia? Screening Early
From City of Hope Cancer Center
New statistics from the American Cancer Society’s (ACS) 2024 report show that lung cancer rates in Georgia are significantly higher than the national average. An estimated 7,350 Georgians will be diagnosed with lung cancer this year. Only six other states will have more new cases.
For City of Hope® Cancer Center Atlanta oncology expert Shady Eldaif, M.D., director of Thoracic Oncology, the main reasons for Georgia’s elevated lung cancer cases are clear: smoking habits and, to a lesser extent, radon exposure.
“Because there’s not a significant genetic predisposition, like with breast cancer or certain types of colon cancer, risk primarily hinges on smoking habits and history,” Dr. Eldaif says. “Radon content in the South tends to be higher, and that also contributes to lung cancer.”
Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, which is currently deadliest and third-most common cancer diagnosed in the United States. Radon exposure is the biggest risk factor for non-smokers, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Radon is a colorless, odorless radioactive gas that forms when metals in rocks and soil break down. People are exposed to radon when the gas seeps through cracks and gaps in building foundations, basements and subfloors.
Only six other states will have more new cases – though the ACS report notes that this year’s rate is slightly down from last year.
Lung Cancer Screening Is Key
Cigarette smoking still accounts for 30% of all cancer deaths across the United States, and as much as 40% in the South. The good news is many current and previous smokers qualify for screening. According to data from the U.S. Preventive Task Force, for patients who receive appropriate screening, lung cancer survival rates increase by 30% to 50%.
In 2023, the guidelines for lung cancer screening received an important update, making it easier for more patients to qualify for screening. Lung cancer screening usually involves a low dose computed tomography (LDCT) scan. At-risk patients are urged to get screened once a year, and almost all insurance plans and Medicare cover the procedure for those who meet current guidelines.
Annual screening with LDCT is recommended for individuals at average risk who:
- Are between 50 to 80 years in age
- Are a current or former smoker
- Have a 20-plus pack-year* smoking history
“Thankfully, many hospitals and physician offices offer screening services,” says Dr. Eldaif. “It is crucial that we enroll our high-risk patients in a routine screening program to monitor their progress. Patients who believe they qualify should speak with their doctor about getting screened. Early detection is crucial.”
*Twenty pack-years means that the patient either smoked one pack of cigarettes a day for 20 years, or a half pack a day for 40 years, and so on.
If you or a loved one are seeking treatment, learn more at cityofhope.org/Atlanta or contact City of Hope at 855-939-HOPE. Call 770-400-6677 to schedule a lung cancer screening appointment.
