Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the US, yet if detected early, its survival rates drastically improve. An unfortunate truth about lung cancer is it doesn’t commonly cause symptoms until the cancer is more advanced, however some people with early lung cancer may experience symptoms. If you go to your doctor when you first notice symptoms, your cancer may be diagnosed at an earlier stage, when treatment is more likely to be effective.
Below is a list of common lung cancer symptoms:
- A cough that doesn’t go away or gets worse
- Coughing up blood or rust-colored sputum (spit or phlegm)
- Chest pain that is often worse with deep breathing, coughing or laughing
- Hoarseness
- Weight loss and loss of appetite
- Shortness of breath
- Feeling tired or weak
- Infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia that don’t go away or keep coming back
- New onset of wheezing
Screening
In partnership with UC Health, MMH offers a lung cancer screening program. The test, which includes a low-dose CT scan, is covered by most insurance programs. If your insurance does not cover the screening, we offer a discounted self-pay rate. To be eligible for the screening, you must be 55 to 80 years old and have a history of smoking. To learn more about the lung cancer screening program, talk to your healthcare provider, or call 812.933.3752.
To learn more about Margaret Mary’s Cancer Care program, click here.