Rallying for lung cancer screening in November
FRANKFORT Lung Cancer Awareness Month reminds us not only of the disease’s devastating impact but also our shared responsibility to act. Lung cancer takes more lives than any other cancer in Kentucky and the United States, but it remains misunderstood and for some, filled with stigma and shame. This November, we invite survivors, families, friends, advocates, and healthcare providers to recognize and remember the impact of lung cancer, as well as to promote a tangible step communities can take to reduce lung cancer deaths.
Lung cancer is often a silent threat that develops without symptoms until at an advanced stage. With early detection, survival rates can significantly improve. Low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) is the recommended method for lung cancer screening and can catch the disease in its early, treatable stages. Unfortunately, only 18% of eligible Kentuckians get screened each year. This is partially due to difficulties in accessing screening, such as people living in rural areas, working adults who can’t get time off and people with transportation barriers.
Lung Cancer Screening Day is an opportunity to address some of these barriers by opening screening facilities during non-standard hours, such as weekend or evening hours. This is also a reminder to healthcare facilities to engage in conversations with patients about the benefits of lung cancer screening and that early detection works.
How Can You Help
Healthcare Providers and Facilities:
- Host a Weekend Screening Event: Open your facility during Lung Cancer Awareness Month for LDCT screenings for expanded hours, especially on Saturdays or evening-hours where working Kentuckians may be more likely to attend.
- Reach Out to Eligible Patients: Use reminders and checks with electronic health record systems to proactively contact high-risk individuals and encourage screening appointments. • Embed Smoking Cessation Referrals: Link every screening opportunity to support for quitting tobacco.
- Reduce Stigma: No one starts smoking because they want to get sick. Talk with patients in a non- judgmental way, recognizing the barriers they have to quitting.
Advocates and Community Organizations:
- Amplify Real Stories: Survivors and caregivers have powerful voices. Sharing their stories can help normalize screening and reduce stigma.
- Join the Movement: Help distribute flyers, promote events, or co-host a community awareness activity.
Policymakers and Public Health Leaders:
- Support Local Screening Campaigns: Ensure communities have what they need to organize outreach, education, and transportation for those at risk.
- Champion Prevention: Consider long-term
strategies that reinvest in early detection as a proven, cost-effective intervention.
The Kentucky Lung Cancer Screening Program (KY LCSP) remains committed to protecting lives through access, education, and evidence-based action. We will continue to work with partners across the Commonwealth to reach high-risk individuals and ensure no one is left behind.
This month we’re collaborating with hospitals, health departments, and nonprofits to plan community- centered screening events, especially in regions with the highest burden. We’re also working alongside our colleagues in the Tobacco Prevention and Cessation program to share data and integrate screening and cessation services whenever possible.
Behind every data point is a life. Behind every screening is a chance.
In a time of tightened budgets and shifting priorities, we can’t afford to retreat from prevention. Instead we must show what’s possible when we step forward together. Whether you’re a clinician, policymaker, advocate, or community member, your voice—and your action—matters.
Let’s turn Lung Cancer Awareness Month into a month of momentum. Open your doors. Start the conversation. Save a life!