Breathe Easy: The Crucial Scoop on Lung Health and Cancer Awareness

It might take your breath away to know just how important your lung health is: it is the leading cause of cancer death.

Lung cancer is a national health crisis, and it is a local concern here in Florida, as well.

In fact, physicians with AdventHealth Waterman report only 3% of people in Florida who qualify for lung cancer screening actually get screened.

During November’s National Lung Cancer Awareness Month, pulmonologist and sleep medicine physician Dr. Francis Christian of AdventHealth Medical Group appeared on FOX35 House Calls, emphasizing the critical importance of lung health.

Christian noted three of the most common causes of death are related to lung conditions such as COPD, lower respiratory tract infections and lung cancer. 

Other highlights from the FOX35 interview included:

• Lung Cancer Misconceptions: Non-smokers and younger individuals can also develop lung cancer, and an early diagnosis significantly improves treatment options and outcomes. 
• Lung Cancer Screening Guidelines: Recent guidelines for lung cancer screening recommend individuals aged 50 to 80 with a significant smoking history should undergo regular screenings to detect lung cancer early. 
• Symptoms and Screening Importance: Early-stage lung cancer often has no symptoms, making regular screenings crucial for early detection. Christian advised discussing screening options with a primary care physician, especially for those with a smoking history.

For more insights and to watch the full interview, click here.