Lung Health, Lung Cancer and the Importance of Screening

A comprehensive approach

FRANKFORT Team Kentucky knows that building healthy communities is one of the most important things we can do for future generations. The Kentucky Department for Public Health and the Kentucky Lung Cancer Screening Program are committed to strategies that promote lung health for Kentuckians.

With the increasing prevalence of lung-related conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma and lung cancer, it is imperative for the medical community to prioritize lung health through prevention, early detection, and effective case management.

The key factors that influence respiratory well-being and presenting evidence-based strategies to mitigate the impact of lung diseases, enhance our collective capacity to deliver superior care and improve patient outcomes.

Understanding Lung Health and Cancer

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death globally, accounting for approximately 1.8 million deaths annually. In the United States, lung cancer is responsible for more deaths than breast, prostate and colorectal cancers combined. According to the American Cancer Society, an estimated 238,340 new cases of lung cancer were diagnosed in 2023, with around 127,070 deaths attributed to the disease.

Lung Cancer in Kentucky

Kentucky continues to face significant challenges regarding lung cancer incidence and mortality. The state has the highest rate of new lung cancer cases in the nation, with 84.9 per 100,000 individuals, compared to the national average of 53.6 per 100,000.

According to the American Lung Association’s 2024 “State of Tobacco Control” report, Kentucky has an adult smoking rate of 21.4% and a high school tobacco use rate of 29.7%. These rates are among the highest in the nation, indicating a significant public health concern.

While Kentucky is a leader in the nation in lung cancer screening rates, this success is just a small step forward, and significant efforts are still needed to combat the state’s high smoking rates and to improve overall lung health. Efforts to address lung cancer in Kentucky have centered on raising awareness, expanding screening programs and encouraging smoking cessation initiatives.

Although challenges persist, early detection and advancements in treatment have led to improved lung cancer survival rates in Kentucky.

Risk Factors and the Role of Smoking

The most significant risk factor for lung cancer is smoking, which accounts for about 85% of all cases. However, non-smokers can also develop lung cancer due to exposure to secondhand smoke, radon gas, asbestos and other carcinogens. Genetic predispositions and a family history of lung cancer also contribute to increased risk.

The decline in smoking rates over recent decades has led to a reduction in lung cancer incidence. Yet the disease remains a major public health challenge, particularly among populations with high smoking rates or limited access to healthcare. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasizes the need for continued public health efforts to reduce smoking and promote healthy behaviors to lower the burden of lung cancer.

Strategies to Promote Lung Health

Promoting lung health requires a multifaceted approach that includes public health initiatives, policy changes and individual actions.

• Reducing Air Pollution: Implementing policies to reduce emissions from vehicles, industries and other sources can significantly improve air quality. Encouraging the use of public transportation, renewable energy Nirvana Nawar, MHA Lung Health, Lung Cancer and the Importance of Screening A comprehensive approach Public Health ISSUE #157 23 sources and green spaces can also contribute to healthier environments.
• Tobacco Control: Comprehensive tobacco control measures, including smoke-free policies, cigarette and e-cigarette taxation and public education campaigns, have proven effective in reducing smoking rates. Providing support for smoking cessation programs can help individuals quit smoking and improve their lung health.
• Addressing High Radon Levels: In promoting lung health, addressing radon exposure is vital, especially in Kentucky, where many areas exceed the EPA’s action level. As a leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers, increasing awareness and encouraging radon testing and mitigation in homes, schools and workplaces can significantly reduce risks and improve lung health statewide.
• Vaccination and Infection Control: Vaccinating against respiratory infections like influenza and COVID-19 can prevent serious lung complications. Promoting good hygiene practices and timely medical treatment for infections can also safeguard lung health.
• Regular Health Check-ups: Routine health check-ups and lung function tests can help in the early detection and management of lung diseases. Individuals with risk factors or symptoms should seek medical advice promptly.

The Importance of Lung Cancer Screening

Early detection of lung cancer through screening is crucial for improving survival rates. Low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening is the most effective method for detecting lung cancer at an early stage, when it is more likely to be treatable. The National Lung Screening Trial demonstrated that LDCT screening reduced lung cancer mortality by 20% compared to chest X-rays among high-risk individuals.

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends annual LDCT screening for adults aged 50 to 80 years who have a 20-packyear smoking history and currently smoke or have quit within the past fifteen years. This recommendation underscores the importance of identifying high-risk individuals and encouraging them to undergo regular screening.

In 2023, the Kentucky Lung Cancer Screening Program Committee developed a strategic plan to increase lung cancer awareness, reduce mortality and morbidity and lower the costs of treatment. By expanding screening efforts and raising public awareness, the program aims to detect lung cancer early, improve survival rates and reduce the financial burden of care, especially for underserved populations. Healthcare professionals, policymakers and individuals working to improve their own health are all taking important steps toward protecting lung health and addressing lung cancer. Thank you for being part of this important journey.