November is Lung Cancer Awareness month. As an oncology nurse and lung cancer nurse navigator, Patricia S., MSN/Ed, RN, OCN, would like to honor all those who have battled this disease and also raise awareness.
Lung cancer is the second most common type of cancer occurring in both men and women and it is the leading cause of cancer deaths in both men and women. Smoking is the greatest risk factor along with exposure to second hand smoke. Other risk factors include exposure to radon, hazardous chemicals, and air pollution. 2 out of 3 people diagnosed with lung cancer are age 65 or older.
Signs and symptoms of lung cancer include:
- A cough that won’t go away and worsens over time
- Chronic chest pain/discomfort
- Shortness of breath, wheezing, hoarseness
- Repeated bouts of pneumonia
- Facial and neck swelling
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Fatigue
Low dose spiral CT screening detects lung cancer before any symptoms are present. Screening is recommended for those at least 50 years of age or older who meet specific criteria; are current smokers; or who have quit within the last 20 years. CT Scans are performed for high-risk individuals at MountainView through Red Rock Radiology. To schedule a scan, please call (855) 476-1268. It could save the life of someone you love.
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