Over the past five years, the five-year survival rate for lung cancer in the US has seen a significant increase of 22%, according to a new report from the American Lung Association. While this improvement is promising, experts emphasize that the number of people being tested for lung cancer is still far from sufficient.

The report states that approximately 26.6% of individuals diagnosed with lung cancer now survive for at least five years, compared to 21.7% in 2016. Additionally, the survival rate for people of color has risen by 17% in the past two years. However, significant racial disparities persist in terms of treatment, diagnosis, and survival.

According to the report, Black and Latino lung cancer patients are less likely to survive five years following their initial diagnosis in comparison to their White counterparts. Latinos were found to be 30% more likely to not receive any treatment and 9% less likely to survive. Similarly, Black individuals were 19% less likely to receive surgical treatment and 16% less likely to survive.

Contrastingly, Asians and Pacific Islanders are 17% less likely to receive an early lung cancer diagnosis. However, once diagnosed, they were found to be 17% more likely to receive surgical treatment and 14% more likely to survive for five years compared to White individuals.

Despite the improvements, lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlight that targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and personalized treatments have shown promise in combating the disease. However, experts suggest that increased screening rates could play a crucial role in saving more lives.

The report reveals that screening can reduce the lung cancer death rate by up to 20%. Detecting lung cancer at an early stage significantly improves the chances of survival. Studies have shown that the five-year survival rate for early-stage lung cancer is nearly 60%, while late detection drops it to a mere 7%. Oftentimes, lung cancer does not exhibit symptoms until it has reached an advanced stage, limiting treatment options.

Some common initial symptoms of lung cancer include persistent cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, and chest discomfort. Additional indicators may include a hoarse voice, coughing up blood, loss of appetite, and unexpected weight loss.

However, only 4.5% of individuals with a high risk of lung cancer undergo screening, according to the report. The rates vary significantly across states, with California recording a low screening rate of 0.7% for high-risk individuals, although this figure may be an undercount.

Dr. Panagis Galiatsatos, a volunteer medical spokesperson for the American Lung Association, stresses the need for improvement in lung cancer screening rates. He expresses optimism that the recently expanded recommendations from the American Cancer Society, which advise individuals between the ages of 50 and 80 with a history of smoking to undergo screening, will lead to increased rates. Previously, the complexity of the screening guidelines hindered widespread adoption.

The report underscores the potential impact of lung cancer screening. At present rates, screening adds 80,000 years of life for individuals in the US and saves the country approximately $40 million. With full eligibility, screening could add 500,000 years of life and save the nation $500 million.

Screening for lung cancer is a relatively straightforward process involving a low-dose CT scan, according to Galiatsatos. Unlike other cancer screenings like colonoscopies, which require extensive preparation, lung cancer screening is less invasive.

Tobacco usage remains the primary cause of lung cancer, accounting for 80% to 90% of cases, as per the report. Even individuals with a long history of smoking can reduce their risk by quitting. Galiatsatos emphasizes the importance of doctors creating a safe and non-judgmental environment for high-risk individuals seeking screening and smoking cessation programs.

Apart from tobacco use, exposure to radon, a colorless and odorless radioactive gas released from soil, water, and rocks, is the second leading cause of lung cancer. The CDC recommends radon testing and the installation of radon reduction systems in cases of high levels. Additionally, increasing airflow and sealing cracks in homes can help minimize exposure. Prolonged exposure to year-round particle pollution is also associated with lung cancer. Using high-efficiency portable air cleaners and exhaust fans that vent outside during cooking are suggested by the US Environmental Protection Agency to reduce exposure.

The American Lung Association report brings attention to the positive trends in lung cancer survival rates but emphasizes the need for increased testing, addressing racial disparities, and raising awareness about the importance of early detection. Encouraging individuals at high risk to undergo screening and providing accessible smoking cessation programs are seen as crucial steps in reducing lung cancer-related mortality.