Early detection, intervention leads to better outcomes
Healthy lungs are essential to the proper function of every organ and tissue in the body. With each breath, lungs bring in oxygen and remove carbon dioxide. That occurs about 17,000 times a day for the average adult, according to the American Lung Association.
As November marks Lung Cancer Awareness Month, residents of Northwest Indiana can breathe more easily knowing Powers Health offers highly skilled specialists and innovative testing and treatments to support lung health.
Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer deaths for men and women. Nearly 125,000 people in the United States will die this year from lung cancer, according to the American Cancer Society.
As researchers learn more about ways to prevent, diagnose and treat the disease, the likelihood of surviving is improving. The five-year lung cancer survival rate increased 52 percent over the past decade, the American Lung Association reports.
Research and studies have led to a better understanding of what may cause lung cancer. Smoking tops the list. Other factors include exposure to air pollution, radon gas and secondhand smoke. Genetics and family history also contribute to the chance of developing lung cancer, according to the association.
At the first sign of symptoms, contact your primary care provider for an assessment and to determine whether follow-up testing is needed, said Pulmonologist Fadee Kutom, MD.
“When we are able to detect lung cancer at an early stage, it is more likely the patient will have a positive outcome,” Kutom said.
Symptoms include a persistent or worsening cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, ongoing fatigue and unexplained weight loss. People with high risk factors may be eligible for a screening with a low-dose CT scan before symptoms even appear, which greatly improves survival rates.
Powers Health lung care experts work with patients to determine the best course of treatment and follow-up for the best possible outcome.
Our hospitals are designated a Care Continuum Center of Excellence for Lung Cancer by the GO2 for Lung Cancer Foundation, ensuring patients receive access to lung cancer screenings that could lead to optimal diagnosis, treatment and survivorship.
Along with screenings, Powers Health offers endobronchial ultrasounds to examine the lungs and airways to diagnose and stage lung conditions; robotic bronchoscopy, which is a minimally invasive procedure for a lung biopsy with better access to hard-to-reach areas; SPiN Thoracic Navigation System, which uses 3D imaging to help physicians locate, diagnose and sample lung nodules; electromagnetic navigational bronchoscopy to produce real-time imaging of hard-to-reach areas of the lungs; laboratory molecular testing; chemotherapy; immunotherapy, radiation; surgery; respiratory therapy; and accredited pulmonary rehabilitation programs.
Powers Health also participates in clinical trials, putting patients at the forefront to benefit from some of the most innovative diagnostics and treatment options.
This November, take time to assess your lung health, and remind your loved ones to do the same.
