Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is currently the leading cause of cancer death, making up almost 25% of all cancer deaths.
What you need to know
Early treatment for lung cancer can save lives
Lung cancer screenings increase the chances of finding lung cancer in a very early stage when it’s most likely to be cured.
“Smoking cessation programs have already led to reduced lung cancer cases by helping people of all ages to quit smoking. We have also made many advances in treatment of lung cancer,” says Dr. Mohammad Jarbou, SSM Health Medical Group pulmonologist. “But it is still better to prevent lung cancer in the first place than to have to treat it.” Lung cancer occurs when cells in the lung become abnormal and reproduce. Due to the large size of the lungs, cancerous tumors can grow and often go undetected for many years.
Risk factors
• History of smoking
• Exposure to asbestos and other hazardous materials and chemicals
• Exposure to radon gas
• Exposure to secondhand smoke
• Family history of lung cancer
Symptoms
• Tiredness or fatigue
• Persistent cough
• Trouble breathing and shortness of breath
• Discomfort in the chest and surrounding areas
• Coughing up mucus or phlegm
• Coughing up blood
Depending on your medical history, age, and other risk factors, your primary care provider may encourage you to undergo a lung cancer screening.
“These screenings are so important for individuals who are at high risk for lung cancer,” Dr. Devin Kennedy, SSM Health Medical Group pulmonologist, says. “Early detection and treatment are vital.” When talking about lung cancer, Dr. Housam Soukieh, SSM Health Medical Group pulmonologist, adds, “It has higher mortality than breast, prostate, and colon combined in the U.S., so that’s why we always want to diagnose cancer when it’s in an early stage where we can do something about it.”
“But it is still better to prevent lung cancer in the first place than to have to treat it.”
How we can help
Do you qualify for a screening? To learn more about SSM Health’s lung cancer screening and treatment options, please visit ssmhealth.com/cancer/lung-cancer.
To make an appointment regarding treatment for asthma, bronchitis, COPD, COVID-19, cystic fibrosis, emphysema, lung cancer, TB, or other lung conditions, please call (573) 681-3585.
To speak with the SSM Health Medical Group lung cancer screening program navigator, please call (573) 681-3753.
