According to doctors, Lung cancer is one of the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide | FPJ
November was observed as Lung Cancer Screening Month worldwide wherein health practitioners raised awareness about the importance of early detection and screening for lung cancer. According to doctors, Lung cancer is one of the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, and early diagnosis can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment and survival.
While most of them are aware of lung cancer and what causes it, not all are aware about its detection. In 90% cases, lung cancer is diagnosed towards third or fourth stage after which the treatment largely consists of combination of chemotherapy, radiations and medicines. But when the condition is diagnosed at the first stage, the treatment which consists of only a surgery, becomes more affective. Detecting lung cancer at the first stage is only possible through lung cancer screening which involves a low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scan, which has been shown to detect early-stage lung cancer in high-risk individuals. Screening is recommended for people who have a history of heavy smoking or have been exposed to other risk factors, such as second-hand smoke or certain environmental toxins.
To increase and spread the awareness about LDCT, Apollo hospitals Navi Mumbai launched a special package of lung cancer screening last week which would help the patients to screen themselves and find the condition early. Apollo Cancer Centres (ACCs), launched India’s first LungLife Screening Program for early detection of lung cancer. This groundbreaking initiative aims to combat lung cancer, which accounts for 5.9% of all cancers and 8.1% of cancer-related deaths in India.
GLOBOCAN 2020 estimates of cancer incidence and mortality produced by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) show as lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer death, with an estimated 1.8 million deaths (18%) in 2020.
Dr Jayalakshmi TK – Sr Consultant Pulmonology Apollo Hospitals Navi Mumbai, said “The introduction of Apollo Cancer Centre’s Lung-Life Screening Program marks a pivotal step in addressing the alarming rise of lung cancer in India. With this comprehensive screening program, we focus on early-stage detection, where the chances of effective treatment and recovery are exponentially higher. The program leverages state-of-the-art low-dose CT scans, ensuring accurate diagnoses while prioritizing patient safety. Together, we are not just treating cancer but transforming lives through timely interventions and holistic care tailored to individual needs.”
The observance of Lung Cancer Screening Month encourages individuals to talk to their healthcare providers about whether lung cancer screening is right for them. It also promotes the importance of smoking cessation, as smoking is the primary risk factor for lung cancer. Public health campaigns often use this month to educate the public on the benefits of screening, the risks of smoking, and the signs and symptoms of lung cancer, which can sometimes be subtle until the disease has progressed, doctors from the hospital said.
Early screening through low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) can aid in early detection and significantly improve survival rates. Yet approximately 80% of high risk individuals have never discussed screening with their healthcare providers. It is vital to enhance communication and awareness around lung cancer screening to enable early diagnosis and save lives, especially among high-risk population.
Dr Pavankumar Biraris- Consultant Pulmonology, Apollo Hospitals Navi Mumbai, said, “Lung cancer remains one of the deadliest cancers globally, but early detection notably enhances survival chances. Through our Lung-Life Screening Program, we aim to identify high-risk individuals early, using advanced low-dose CT technology, which minimizes radiation exposure while maximizing diagnostic precision. This program is particularly impactful for individuals with a history of smoking, passive smoking exposure, or a family history of lung cancer. By detecting lung cancer at a treatable stage, we empower patients with better treatment outcomes and build a renewed hope for a healthier future.”
Lung cancer is a silent threat, often detected only when it has advanced, thereby, making early detection a critical intervention. With Lung cancer screening improves survival rates, Dr. Jyoti Bajpai, Lead – Medical and Precision Oncology, Apollo Cancer Centre, Navi Mumbai, said.
