A new survey conducted by the American Lung Association (ALA) highlights a troubling gap in awareness about early detection of lung cancer through annual CT screenings.
These screenings can spot lung cancer early, when it’s most treatable, and significantly improve survival rates. However, the majority of Americans are unaware of this critical health resource.
The survey, part of the 2024 Lung Health Barometer, revealed that only 38% of people knew about the availability of CT scans for high-risk individuals, such as those with a long history of smoking.
This screening is recommended by the American Cancer Society for adults aged 50 to 80 who either currently smoke or have smoked heavily in the past, defined as at least a 20-pack-year history (smoking one pack per day for 20 years).
Harold Wimmer, president and CEO of the ALA, expressed concern over the low level of awareness, stating that much more needs to be done to educate people about this potentially lifesaving test.
“The survey shows that we have a significant amount of work to do in increasing awareness about lung cancer screening,” Wimmer said.
Detecting lung cancer early through an annual CT scan can dramatically improve outcomes. According to the ALA, early detection raises the chances of five-year survival from lung cancer by 63%, especially for those in the early stages of the disease.
Unfortunately, many Americans remain uninformed about this option.
Despite the low awareness, there has been some progress. The 2024 survey found a 27% increase in knowledge about lung cancer screening compared to the 2022 survey.
Still, much of the population remains in the dark about the risks and options for lung cancer prevention and treatment.
Other findings from the survey were equally concerning:
- Only 28% of respondents knew that lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S.
- A mere 10% believed that lung cancer could affect women, even though it is a significant cause of death for both men and women.
- Most respondents (73%) had never discussed their risk of lung cancer with their doctor, and only 42% expressed concern about possibly developing the disease.
It’s also important to note that about one in five lung cancer cases occur in people who have never smoked, according to the American Cancer Society. This underscores the need for broader awareness of lung cancer risks and screening options beyond just those who smoke.
On a positive note, seven out of 10 people surveyed were hopeful that treatments for lung cancer have improved in recent years.
However, only 15% knew that survival rates for lung cancer have increased by more than 50% in the past decade, thanks to advancements in treatment and early detection.
Wimmer stressed the importance of the survey’s findings, noting that they offer a glimpse into public attitudes toward lung cancer and the critical need for education.
“The American Lung Association’s new survey provides a critical look at public awareness and attitudes regarding lung cancer, which is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S.,” he said.
With lung cancer continuing to take more lives than any other form of cancer, improving public knowledge about screening and treatment options is crucial.
Annual low-dose CT scans could be a game changer for high-risk individuals, offering the opportunity to catch lung cancer early and significantly improve survival rates.
Raising awareness about these screenings, encouraging conversations between patients and doctors, and addressing misconceptions about lung cancer are essential steps in reducing the toll of this deadly disease.
As more people become informed, there’s hope that more lives can be saved through early detection and treatment.
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