Lung cancer is the deadliest cancer in the United States. Since lung tissue has no nerves, people may not experience pain or symptoms until the cancer has reached an advanced stage. However, if lung cancer is diagnosed early, the cure rate can be over 90%. That’s why adults who are at high risk should undergo an annual lung cancer screening, which includes a low-dose CT scan.
In recognition of National Lung Cancer Awareness Month in November, Catholic Health is participating in National Lung Cancer Screening Day on Saturday, November 9 as part of its ongoing Lung Cancer Screening Program that operates year-round. The cost of the screening is covered by most health insurance plans for individuals who meet the following criteria:
Participating sites include Kenmore Mercy Hospital, Mercy Hospital of Buffalo, Mount St. Mary’s Hospital in Lewiston, Sisters of Charity Hospital in Buffalo and its St. Joseph Campus in Cheektowaga, Mercy Ambulatory Care Center (MACC) in Orchard Park, and Lockport Memorial Hospital, a Campus of Mount St. Mary’s Hospital.
“Lung cancer has the highest mortality rate of all cancers, but the good news is, if caught early there is a much greater chance of survival,” said Dr. Mark Jajkowski, Thoracic Surgeon with Mercy Hospital’s Cardiothoracic Surgical Associates. “We encourage everyone who is at high risk for lung cancer get screened. It will help us save lives.”
Registration is required. To schedule an appointment, call Catholic Health’s Lung Cancer Screening Program at 716-314-8200. Individuals who qualify for the lung cancer screening, but are not available for the Lung Cancer Screening Day, will be scheduled at a later date. To find out more about lung cancer screening at Catholic Health, visit chsbuffalo.org/lung.