Recent data from the American Lung Association reveals a noteworthy 22% increase in the five-year survival rate for lung cancer in the United States over the past five years. Despite this positive trend, experts emphasize that the number of individuals undergoing lung cancer screening remains insufficient.
The report, released on Tuesday, indicates that approximately 26.6% of individuals diagnosed with lung cancer survive at least five years beyond their initial diagnosis, a significant rise from 21.7% in 2016. Moreover, there has been a 17% improvement in the survival rate for people of color over the past two years. However, the report underscores persistent racial disparities in treatment, diagnosis, and survival.
Among the disparities highlighted, Black and Latino individuals with lung cancer exhibit lower five-year survival rates compared to White patients. Latinos, for instance, are 30% more likely to forego treatment and 9% less likely to survive, while Black individuals face a 19% lower likelihood of receiving surgical treatment and a 16% lower chance of survival.
Despite these improvements, lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. However, experts argue that advancements in targeted therapy and immunotherapy, coupled with more personalized treatment options, offer hope. Additionally, a simple yet powerful tool could contribute to saving more lives: increased lung cancer screening.
The new report highlights that screening can reduce the lung cancer death rate by up to 20%. Detecting lung cancer in its early stages significantly enhances the chances of survival. Research indicates that the five-year survival rate is nearly 60% when lung cancer is diagnosed early but drops to 7% with late detection. Early screening is crucial as symptoms often manifest when the cancer is advanced, limiting treatment options.
Recognizing the symptoms of lung cancer, such as a persistent cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, and chest discomfort, can aid in early detection. However, many individuals with lung cancer do not exhibit symptoms until the disease has progressed significantly.
Despite the benefits of screening, only about 4.5% of individuals at high risk of lung cancer undergo screening. Experts emphasize the need for improved screening rates, with recent guidelines from the American Cancer Society recommending screening for anyone between the ages of 50 and 80 who currently smoke or have a history of smoking equivalent to 20 pack-years.
Dr. Panagis Galiatsatos, a volunteer medical spokesperson for the American Lung Association, underscores the potential for improvement in screening rates. He is optimistic that updated guidelines will encourage more eligible individuals to undergo screening. Galiatsatos points out that lung cancer screening has gained prominence only in the past decade, and recent changes in guidelines aim to simplify the screening process, making it more accessible.
The report emphasizes that current screening rates already add 80,000 years of life for people in the US and save the economy $40 million. If everyone eligible undergoes screening, it could add 500,000 years of life and save the nation $500 million.
Lung cancer screening involves a low-dose CT scan, a relatively straightforward procedure compared to more invasive screenings. However, experts stress the importance of addressing the root cause of most lung cancer cases: tobacco use. Approximately 80% to 90% of lung cancer cases are linked to tobacco use. Even individuals with a history of smoking can reduce their risk by quitting.
While screening is crucial, creating a supportive environment for high-risk individuals is equally important. Dr. Galiatsatos urges healthcare providers to ensure that individuals feel safe and have access to smoking cessation programs, without facing stigma or judgment.
Beyond tobacco, exposure to radon, a colorless, odorless radioactive gas, is identified as the second leading cause of lung cancer. Radon tests are available, and mitigation strategies, such as radon reduction systems and improved ventilation, can help reduce the risk.
Furthermore, year-round exposure to particle pollution contributes to lung cancer risk. Taking steps to reduce exposure, such as using high-efficiency air cleaners and exhaust fans, is recommended. Overall, while advancements in lung cancer survival rates are promising, prioritizing screening and addressing environmental factors remain crucial in the ongoing fight against this leading cause of cancer-related mortality.
