American Cancer Society Urges Increased Lung Cancer Screening Among Adults – The Daily Guardia
Title: American Cancer Society Updates Guidelines for Lung Cancer Screening, Urges Additional 5 Million People to Get Screened
By [Author Name]
In a bid to combat the rising cases of lung cancer, the American Cancer Society (ACS) has recently updated its guidelines for lung cancer screening, urging nearly five million more individuals to undergo screening. The new recommendations aim to ensure early detection and treatment, potentially saving thousands of lives.
Previously, the ACS advised annual screening for adults aged 55 to 74 with a smoking history of at least 30 pack-years, who either currently smoke or quit within the past 15 years. However, the updated guidelines eliminate the requirement of a specific time since quitting smoking. Instead, the ACS now recommends annual screening for current or former smokers aged 50 to 80 with a minimum smoking history of 20 pack-years.
The previous criteria were deemed confusing due to the potential risks of lung cancer persisting even after quitting smoking. The ACS believes that by expanding the age range and eliminating the time factor, they can effectively increase the number of individuals who undergo screening, resulting in earlier detection and improved outcomes for patients.
According to the ACS, the new guidelines have the potential to prevent approximately 21% more lung cancer deaths compared to the current recommendations. This significant increase in prevention showcases the importance of broader screening measures to effectively combat the disease.
It is worth noting that the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, responsible for issuing cancer screening recommendations, aligns with the ACS guidelines, advocating for annual screening for individuals aged 50 to 80 with at least a 20 pack-year smoking history, regardless of smoking status.
Despite the benefits of early lung cancer screening, the number of eligible individuals who have undergone the procedure remains low. Estimates suggest that only 10% to 15% of eligible Americans have been screened for lung cancer, indicating a pressing need for greater awareness and accessibility to screening programs.
The ACS’s updated guidelines, combined with the support of other leading medical organizations, will undoubtedly encourage more individuals to prioritize their lung health. By identifying cases of lung cancer in its early stages, healthcare professionals have a higher chance of implementing effective treatments and improving patient outcomes.
As the burden of lung cancer continues to increase, it is imperative for individuals at risk to take proactive measures in tackling this deadly disease. It is hoped that the latest guidelines will serve as a reminder to all Americans about the importance of prioritizing their health and considering lung cancer screening as a vital preventive measure.
References:
– American Cancer Society Updates Screening Guidelines: What Are the Changes?
– U.S. Preventive Services Task Force Releases Lung Cancer Screening Recommendations
– Low Lung Cancer Screening Rates Underscore Urgent Need for Awareness and Action.
