Lung Cancer: The Power of Awareness
posted by Amanda Schany and Mindy Sylvester on Tuesday, November 26, 2024
November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month, and as healthcare professionals working closely with this disease every day, we want to take a moment to talk about something close to our hearts: the importance of early detection and proactive care for lung cancer.
Here in Iowa, the reality of lung cancer is sobering. Not only does our state have the second-highest cancer rate in the country, but lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths, accounting for nearly one in four cancer fatalities. These numbers remind us why awareness and action are so crucial.
Why Screening Matters
At Spencer Hospital, we’re proud to be an ACR-Designated Lung Cancer Screening Center, which means we meet the highest safety and quality standards for lung cancer screenings. If you’re at higher risk—whether due to long-term smoking, exposure to radon or asbestos, or a family history of lung cancer—a low-dose CT scan can be a life-saving tool.
This quick, non-invasive test allows us to detect lung cancer at its earliest and most treatable stages. Once the scan is complete, our skilled radiologists, who specialize in lung imaging, carefully review the results to look for anything out of the ordinary. And if something does come up, we’ll guide you through the next steps.
Understanding the Risks and Symptoms
While smoking is a well-known risk factor, we also want to stress that secondhand smoke, radon gas, certain chemicals, and chronic lung diseases like COPD can all increase the likelihood of developing lung cancer. Recognizing the symptoms early is just as important: a persistent cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or coughing up blood are all signs you shouldn’t ignore.
Caring for Patients at Abben Cancer Center
If you receive a lung cancer diagnosis, we want you to know that you don’t have to face it alone. At the Abben Cancer Center, we believe in providing comprehensive, compassionate care. Every treatment plan we create is tailored to the individual. Whether it’s surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or newer options like targeted therapies or immunotherapy, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
But beyond treatments, what truly sets us apart is the community we build with our patients. We focus on education, so you feel empowered to make decisions about your care. Our monthly support groups are a place for connection and understanding, and many patients tell us they feel like part of the “Abben Family.”
Our Message to You
If you or someone you love is at risk for lung cancer, please don’t wait—talk to your doctor about screening. Early detection truly saves lives, and we’re here to make that process as easy and comfortable as possible.
This Lung Cancer Awareness Month, let’s all take steps to protect ourselves and support those who are navigating this journey. Whether you’re seeking a screening, needing treatment, or looking for support, we at Spencer Hospital and the Abben Cancer Center are here for you.
Remember, knowledge is power, and together we can make a difference.
To learn more about our lung screening and cancer services at Spencer Hospital and Abben Cancer Center, please visit our Diagnostic Imaging page or our Abben Cancer Center page.
Check out this video of Dr. Hurst explaining what radiologists look for in a lung cancer screening:
For more information regarding Lung Cancer Awareness, check out Newsradio 1240 KICD's community health podcast featuring Amanda Schany and Mindy Sylvester of Spencer Hospital. Follow the link to listen to the full episode - HEALTH UPDATE: November 9 - Lung Cancer Awareness
- cancer
- imaging
- lung
- screening