As Lung Cancer Awareness Month approaches in November, the Nevada Cancer Coalition (NCC) and partners are urging Nevadans to prioritize early detection through screenings. Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer deaths in Nevada, surpassing colorectal and breast cancers combined. However, advances in screening methods, such as low-dose CT scans, are helping detect the disease earlier when it’s more treatable.
“Many people at higher risk don’t realize they’re eligible for screening,” said NCC Executive Director Cari Herington. “By increasing awareness, we can save lives and reduce the impact of lung cancer on Nevada families.”
NCC is promoting its “Screen Your Lungs” campaign, offering free yard signs in English and Spanish to raise awareness. The annual screening, recommended since 2013 for high-risk individuals, has a low participation rate—only 1.4% of eligible Nevadans were screened last year.
Dr. Chivonne Harrigal, a radiologist, stressed that early detection can more than double survival rates.
Nevadans aged 50-80 with a significant smoking history are encouraged to discuss screening options with their healthcare provider. More information is available at SavedByTheScan.org.
Source: NCC
