In recognition of November as Lung Cancer Awareness Month, Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast is promoting low-dose CT scans for early detection of the disease. In a press release, the hospital stated that lung cancer is often diagnosed in advanced stages because it can develop without early symptoms. The organization claims that early screening for high-risk individuals can lead to better treatment outcomes.
The hospital cites local health data to underscore its screening initiative. According to figures provided in the release, Walton County’s lung cancer diagnosis rate is slightly higher than the state average, with more than 68% of local cases reportedly diagnosed in advanced stages. The release also points to local data indicating that 29% of adults in the area identify as current smokers and 28% as former smokers.
The screening is a low-dose CT scan, which uses X-rays to create detailed images of the lungs. Guidelines highlighted by the hospital recommend yearly screenings for adults between 50 and 80 years old who currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years, and who have a 20 “pack-year” or more smoking history. A 20 pack-year history is equivalent to smoking one pack a day for 20 years.
Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast is offering the screenings locally. Those interested in determining their eligibility or scheduling a scan can contact the hospital for more information.
