The New York State Department of Health has marked Lung Cancer Awareness Day on August 1, urging residents to prioritize screening and early detection. Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer death in the state, with smoking identified as the primary risk factor.
“Early detection of lung cancer can make a life changing and life-threatening diagnosis more treatable,” said State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald. “Some individuals with lung cancer may present as asymptomatic, which is why proactive screening is critical to detect the disease in early stages.”
Screening for lung cancer involves using a low dose computed tomography (CT) scan before symptoms appear. While screening does not prevent the disease, it can identify cancers at an earlier stage when treatment options are more effective.
Annual lung cancer screenings are advised for adults aged 50 to 80 who have a significant history of smoking. In New York State, Medicaid and most health insurance plans cover these yearly screenings. For Medicare recipients, coverage continues up to age 77. Residents can find nearby screening sites by visiting www.nylungcancerscreening.com.
Department data shows that about 7,000 people die from lung cancer each year in New York, with smoking accounting for nearly 80 percent of those deaths. Incidence rates are higher among men than women; non-Hispanic White individuals experience the highest rates while Hispanic individuals have the lowest.
Smoking tobacco products remains the chief cause of lung cancer. The department also notes that vapor or aerosol from e-cigarettes contains substances linked to both lung disease and cancer.
Secondhand smoke poses risks as well; living with someone who smokes increases one’s chance of developing lung cancer or heart disease by up to 30 percent.
The department emphasizes quitting smoking as the most important step toward prevention: “Because of these factors, the most important step a person can take to protect against lung cancer is not to smoke.” The statement continues: “For those who currently smoke, it’s never too late to quit. While quitting earlier in life yields greater health benefits, people who quit later in life or have smoked heavily also benefit from quitting. Anyone who smokes or has a history of smoking should talk to their health care provider about lung cancer screening. Quitting benefits not only an individual’s physical health, but can improve mental health and reduce anxiety, stress, and depression. Smokers who receive medications and counseling double their chances of successfully quitting.”
Support is available through the New York State Quitline offering free coaching services in English and Spanish along with nicotine replacement therapies such as patches and gum via phone at 1-866 NY-QUITS (1-866-697-8487) or text at (716) 309-4688.
Other risk factors besides smoking contribute to increased chances of developing lung cancer; when combined with tobacco use they further elevate risk levels.
The New York State Cancer Consortium brings together over 400 public and private organizations statewide focused on reducing both incidence and mortality related to cancers including through initiatives like its Lung Cancer Screening Action Team.
