Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer deaths for both men and women in the United States, but early detection can dramatically improve survival rates, a spokesperson for Houston Methodist West said in a November 3 press release.

If lung cancer is detected before it spreads, the chance of surviving five years or more increases to 65 percent. During Lung Cancer Awareness Month this November, health experts are urging those at risk to get screened.

DID YOU KNOW?

• Smoking is the primary cause of lung cancer. Nearly 9 in 10 lung cancers are caused by smoking cigarettes.

• Non-smokers, however, can also be diagnosed if there’s:

o Secondhand smoke exposure; increases risk by up to 20 to 30%

o A family history of lung cancer

o Radiation therapy to the chest

o Exposure to carcinogens like asbestos or radon gas

• More than 226,000 Americans are expected to be diagnosed with lung or bronchus cancer in 2025, according to the American Cancer Society and more than 124,700 are expected to die from lung cancer this year.

• Current guidelines recommend annual low-dose CT scans for adults 50 to 80 years old who:

o Currently smoke or quit within the past 15 years, and

o Smoked at least one pack a day for 20 years or more.

• Symptoms vary among individuals. Many don’t have symptoms until the cancer is advanced.

"Lung cancer can often be silent in the earlier stages, which is why screening is so important, especially in populations with a smoking history,” said Dr. Olivia Tomasco, board certified internal medicine physician at Houston Methodist West Hospital.

“Certain symptoms such as coughing up blood, weight loss, persistent cough, or shortness of breath can also be signs of lung cancer that would require further workup. Screening is simple and there are many targeted treatment options that can provide hope and healing early on, which is why early detection is so important."

Lung Cancer Awareness Month is a time to educate, advocate, and act. If you or someone you know meets the screening criteria, call a Houston Methodist provider today to schedule an appointment.