Charlottesville, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – UVA Health is putting the spotlight on lung cancer screening, emphasizing the critical role of early detection. Aimee Strong, nurse practitioner and program coordinator for UVA’s Lung Cancer Screening Program, shared how early-stage diagnosis significantly improves outcomes. “With lung cancer screening, when we find a stage 1 lung cancer, that’s potentially treatable with surgery or radiation,” Strong explained. “Stage 1 lung cancer can be curable in up to about 80% of the cases if we find it early.” 

Strong highlighted common lung cancer warning signs, such as a persistent cough and unexplained weight loss, urging individuals with symptoms to seek medical advice. “About 80% of lung cancer cases have an association with smoking, but that leaves about 20% of people that get lung cancer that have never smoked.” 

UVA Health is hosting several events throughout November, Lung Cancer Awareness Month, to promote screening awareness. Strong emphasized the ease and accessibility of the screening process, which is covered by insurance and offers quick results. Events will include an information day at Blue Ridge Medical Center on November 21 and another at UVA’s main hospital on November 22, providing opportunities for community members to learn more about lung cancer screening options. 

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