Lung cancer, a disease that claims hundreds of American lives each day, remains a silent killer as the majority of individuals remain unaware of life-saving screening options available to them. Startling statistics from the American Lung Association reveal that only 38% of people surveyed were aware of the existence of lung cancer screenings for those at high risk, while an even smaller percentage, 28%, recognized that it is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. In light of these findings, medical experts are calling for increased awareness and accessibility to these potentially life-saving screenings.

Prominent CBS News medical contributor and editor-at-large for public health at KFF Health News, Dr. Céline Gounder, stresses the urgent need for change in public perception of lung cancer screenings. She emphasizes that people need to be made aware that this option exists and has become more accessible over the past decade. Furthermore, Dr. Gounder emphasizes that these screenings should be covered by insurance as they are recommended preventive healthcare measures. She urges individuals who believe they fall into the high-risk category to consult with their doctors and explore the possibility of undergoing lung cancer screenings.

Understanding the risk factors associated with lung cancer and the importance of getting screened is crucial. The latest guidelines from the American Cancer Society recommend annual lung cancer screenings for individuals aged 50 to 80 years who currently smoke or have smoked in the past, with a smoking history of 20 years or more. Dr. Gounder explains that pack-years, a measurement used to calculate smoking exposure, are determined by multiplying the average number of packs smoked per day by the number of years of smoking. This means that even those who have smoked one pack per day for 20 years, or two packs per day for 10 years, would meet the 20 pack-year threshold.

Lung cancer screenings involve undergoing CT scans to assess the presence of cancer within the lungs. During the procedure, individuals lie down and are smoothly rolled through a circular machine that captures three-dimensional X-rays of the lungs. Dr. Gounder points out that while the process is relatively quick, taking under 10 minutes, it is significantly underutilized among individuals who are at high risk and should prioritize regular screenings.

Contrary to popular belief, smoking is not the sole risk factor for developing lung cancer. Dr. Gounder highlights other contributing factors, such as air pollution, that also increase the risk. It is imperative for individuals to be aware of these risk factors and take appropriate steps to protect their lung health.

The lack of awareness surrounding lung cancer screenings poses a significant threat to public health. Increased education and accessibility to screenings can potentially save countless lives by detecting lung cancer in its early stages when treatment options are more effective. It is crucial for individuals to take proactive measures in discussing their risk factors with medical professionals and considering the possibility of undergoing lung cancer screenings. By increasing awareness and taking preventative action, we can strive towards a future where lung cancer becomes a less devastating disease.