Seattle, WA - Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, claiming the lives of approximately 130,000 Americans annually. Shockingly, this death toll surpasses the combined fatalities of prostate, breast, and colon cancer, according to Dr. Luis Godoy, an expert in the field. However, despite the alarming numbers, only 6% of eligible patients are routinely screened for lung cancer, with some states reporting screening rates as low as 1%.

Early detection of lung cancer significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and potential cure, emphasizing the critical importance of regular screenings. Dr. Godoy emphasizes that if lung cancer is detected at an early stage, it becomes a potentially treatable and curable disease, which could significantly reduce mortality rates.

In response to the distressingly low screening rates, the American College of Surgeons has issued an urgent plea to individuals at high risk of developing lung cancer to get checked without delay. High-risk individuals are those aged between 50 and 80 years old who either currently smoke or have a history of smoking.

Although smoking remains the primary cause of lung cancer for most patients, it is surprising to note that around 20% of American lung cancer cases are diagnosed in individuals who never smoked. This further highlights the need for increased screening efforts to ensure that potential cases are detected and treated promptly.

Moreover, doctors stress that regular screening is not only crucial for high-risk individuals but necessary for everyone's overall health. Second-hand smoke exposure has been linked to adverse respiratory effects, especially in children growing up in households with smokers. Screening for lung cancer can help identify any signs of the disease early on, leading to prompt intervention and preventing long-term health complications.

In an effort to raise awareness and encourage individuals to schedule screenings, National Lung Cancer Screening Day will be observed on Veterans Day, Saturday. Screening centers across the country are urged to open their doors and provide easy access to screenings for those at risk.

With lung cancer claiming numerous lives each year, it is imperative that eligible individuals take advantage of screening programs. Early detection offers a glimmer of hope in the fight against this devastating disease. By raising awareness and increasing screening rates, we can work towards a future where lung cancer is no longer a leading cause of death in the United States.