Special to The Island News
Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in the U.S. – and while smoking is the top cause, lung cancer doesn’t only affect smokers.
Links between smoking and lung cancer
The CDC reports that cigarette smoking causes 80% to 90% of all lung cancer cases in the U.S. If you’re a current smoker or have a history of smoking, your risk is significantly higher.
“Smoking rates are declining overall due to the emergence of alternatives like vaping and e-cigarettes,” said Dr. Andrew Stevens, a board-certified pulmonologist and intensivist who sees patients at Beaufort Memorial Pulmonary Specialists in Beaufort and Okatie, as well as the hospital’s intensive care unit (ICU), “But it may take years for this change to be reflected in national lung cancer statistics.”
Other lung cancer risk factors
While smoking is the most significant risk factor, there are other important contributors to consider, including:
- Family history of lung cancer;
- Exposure to secondhand smoke; and …
- Occupational or environmental exposure to asbestos, diesel exhaust or radon gas
Early detection saves lives
In its early stages, lung cancer often has no noticeable symptoms. When symptoms do appear – including persistent cough, unexplained weight loss or coughing up blood – the disease may already be in an advanced stage.
That’s why early detection through screening is essential.
“The best method for detecting lung cancer early? Low-dose CT scans, once a year, for those who are eligible for the screening,” Dr. Stevens said. “Talk to your primary care provider about your eligibility for low-dose CT scan.”
Am I at high risk for lung cancer?
You may qualify for a low-dose lung cancer screening if you meet the following criteria:
- Age 50 to 80;
- Current or former smoker, regardless of how long ago you quit; and …
- Have a 20-pack-year smoking history (for information on how to calculate your pack year history, visit SmokingPackYears.com).
Where to get screened
Beaufort Memorial offers low-dose lung cancer screenings at its locations around the Lowcountry:
- Keyserling Cancer Center (989 Ribaut Road, Beaufort);
- New River Cancer Center (122 Okatie Center Blvd. North, Suite 130, Okatie Medical Pavilion, Okatie);
- Island Imaging Center (40 Palmetto Parkway, Hilton Head Island);
- Lowcountry Medical Group (300 Midtown Drive, Beaufort); and …
- Beaufort Memorial Hospital (955 Ribaut Road, Beaufort).
If you believe you are eligible for a screening, talk to your healthcare provider. By knowing your risk factors and staying informed, you can take control of your lung health.
