November 1, 2022

Lung Cancer Awareness Month

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Cancer
Lung Cancer

Lung Cancer Awareness Month: Shedding Light on the Deadliest Cancer

November is National Lung Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness and funds for lung cancer research. This observance is crucial, as lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. Each year, over 150,000 Americans succumb to this disease, with approximately 230,000 new cases diagnosed annually. While smoking is the most common cause, other risk factors like exposure to secondhand smoke, family history, and asbestos exposure significantly increase the likelihood of developing lung cancer.

The Connection Between Asbestos Exposure and Lung Cancer

Certain types of lung cancer have been directly linked to asbestos exposure, often alongside a diagnosis of asbestosis, a non-cancerous lung condition caused by inhaling asbestos fibers. The latency period for asbestos-related lung cancer can be exceptionally long, with symptoms appearing 20 years or more after the initial exposure. This extended period can make it challenging to trace the cancer back to asbestos exposure, complicating the diagnosis and legal process for seeking compensation.

Studies show that smokers exposed to asbestos are 50-90 times more likely to develop lung cancer than individuals who have neither smoked nor been exposed to asbestos. The combination of cigarette smoking and asbestos exposure creates a synergistic effect, drastically increasing the risk of developing lung cancer compared to either risk factor alone.

Symptoms to Watch for: Early Detection is Key

One of the challenges with lung cancer is that many patients do not show symptoms until the disease is in an advanced stage. In fact, about 25% of lung cancer cases are diagnosed incidentally through imaging tests conducted for other reasons. Early detection through lung cancer screenings can significantly improve survival rates, particularly for high-risk individuals, such as smokers and those with a history of asbestos exposure.

If you are at risk for lung cancer, watch for the following symptoms:

  • Chest pain
  • Persistent coughing or wheezing
  • Hoarseness
  • Shortness of breath
  • Fatigue
  • Loss of appetite
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Recurring bronchitis

Lung Cancer Screening: A Lifesaving Measure

Lung cancer screenings play a critical role in the early detection of the disease. Screening is recommended for individuals with a 20-pack-year smoking history (smoking one pack per day for 20 years) or other high-risk factors, such as asbestos exposure. Regular CT scans can help detect lung cancer at an earlier stage, when it is more treatable and the likelihood of survival is higher. The National Cancer Institute and other health organizations emphasize the importance of annual screenings for those at elevated risk.

The Impact of Asbestos-Related Lung Cancer in Michigan

In Michigan, many residents are diagnosed annually with asbestosis and asbestos-related lung cancer, given the state’s industrial history and the widespread use of asbestos-containing materials in factories, shipyards, and construction sites. Unfortunately, individuals who received compensation for asbestosis may still develop primary lung cancer or mesothelioma later in life.

Michigan law allows for a second disease case if someone diagnosed with asbestosis subsequently develops lung cancer or mesothelioma, even decades later. Serling & Abramson, P.C. can assist you in filing a new claim for compensation if you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a second asbestos-related disease.

Understanding the Risk Factors for Lung Cancer

Lung cancer can develop from various risk factors, which may work independently or in combination to increase the likelihood of the disease. The primary risk factors include:

  1. Smoking: The leading cause of lung cancer, responsible for up to 85% of cases.
  2. Secondhand smoke exposure: Living or working with smokers increases the risk of lung cancer, even if you do not smoke yourself.
  3. Asbestos exposure: Prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers in the workplace significantly raises the risk of developing asbestos-related lung cancer.
  4. Family history: Genetics can play a role in cancer susceptibility, especially if close relatives have had lung cancer.
  5. Radon gas: This naturally occurring radioactive gas can accumulate in homes and workplaces, increasing the risk of lung cancer.
  6. Other environmental factors: Exposure to certain chemicals and pollutants, such as diesel exhaust, air pollution, and silica dust, can also raise lung cancer risk.

Screening Guidelines and the Importance of Awareness

Screening for lung cancer is crucial for those at elevated risk, such as long-term smokers and individuals with a history of asbestos exposure. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends annual low-dose CT scans for people aged 50-80 who have a 20-pack-year smoking history or have quit smoking within the last 15 years.

Raising awareness about lung cancer can help more people understand the importance of regular screenings and early detection. Healthcare providers and organizations are working to increase the accessibility of lung cancer screening programs, particularly for communities with limited resources. Increasing screening rates and improving access to high-quality, patient-centered care can lead to earlier detection and better outcomes.

The Role of Lung Cancer Awareness Month in Promoting Education and Advocacy

Lung Cancer Awareness Month serves as a vital platform for educating the public, advocating for policy changes, and supporting lung cancer research. It brings attention to the disparities in cancer outcomes and the need for more effective screening programs. Efforts to improve lung cancer survival rates include expanding access to screening guidelines, increasing funding for cancer research, and supporting legislation like Katherine’s Lung Cancer Early Detection and Survival Act, which aims to improve screening accessibility.

Advances in Treatment Options for Lung Cancer

The treatment landscape for lung cancer has evolved significantly, with new therapies offering hope for improved outcomes. Treatment options for lung cancer may include:

  • Surgery: Removal of cancerous tissue, often used for early-stage lung cancers.
  • Radiation therapy: Used to target cancer cells in localized areas.
  • Chemotherapy: Administered to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors before surgery.
  • Immunotherapy: Helps the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells.
  • Targeted therapies: Medications designed to target specific cancer mutations.

Advances in cancer treatment have contributed to better survival rates, especially when lung cancer is detected early. Patient-centered cancer care provided at top centers, such as Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center and UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center, focuses on individualized treatment plans for each patient.

Supporting the Lung Cancer Community

During Lung Cancer Awareness Month, it is important to acknowledge the ongoing challenges faced by the lung cancer community and support efforts to improve awareness and access to care. This includes advocating for health disparities to be addressed, providing support to families affected by lung cancer, and ensuring that all individuals have access to cancer care resources and lung cancer screenings.

Get Involved: Make a Difference This Lung Cancer Awareness Month

This November, join the movement to raise awareness for lung cancer. Participate in events, donate to research organizations, and encourage friends and family to learn about lung cancer risk factors and screening guidelines. Together, we can make a difference in the fight against the deadliest cancer.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with asbestos-related lung cancer, contact Serling & Abramson, P.C. for a free case evaluation. Our experienced attorneys can help you pursue compensation and ensure you receive the justice you deserve.