Weather for the Following Location: Lexington on Map

Progress in the Fight Against Lung Cancer in Kentucky

Article Sponsored by:

Want to target the right audience? Sponsor our site and choose your specific industry to connect with a relevant audience.

What Sponsors Receive:
Prominent brand mentions across targeted, industry-focused articles
High-visibility placements that speak directly to an engaged local audience
Guaranteed coverage that maximizes exposure and reinforces your brand presence
Interested in seeing what sponsored content looks like on our platform?
Browse Examples of Sponsored News and Articles:
May’s Roofing & Contracting
Forwal Construction
NSC Clips
Real Internet Sales
Suited
Florida4Golf
Click the button below to sponsor our articles:
Healthcare professionals conducting lung cancer screenings.

News Summary

Kentucky is making significant strides in reducing late-stage lung cancer diagnoses, credited to early screening initiatives. The state now ranks second for lung cancer screening rates, with programs aimed at increasing access for underserved communities. The Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation’s efforts have led to a reduction in late-stage diagnoses and improvements in treatment outcomes. Stories of patients like Asa Weathers and Elizabeth Williams highlight the importance of early detection and targeted therapies in saving lives.

Louisville, Kentucky – Significant progress is being made in the fight against lung cancer in Kentucky, a state that has long held the highest lung cancer death rate in the United States, which is 50% higher than the national average. Recent data indicates a notable decline in late-stage lung cancer diagnoses, thanks in part to a statewide emphasis on early screening initiated after the University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center obtained National Cancer Institute designation in 2013.

Since this designation, Kentucky has seen the rate of late-stage lung cancer diagnoses drop at double the rate of the national average, showcasing the effectiveness of early detection methods. Currently, Kentucky ranks second in the country for lung cancer screening rates, providing a beacon of hope for patients and their families.

One notable case is that of Asa Weathers, a former smoker who spent 30 years smoking before being diagnosed with stage four lung cancer. Following routine checkups, Weathers underwent aggressive treatment, including chemotherapy and radiation, which highlights the critical importance of early detection in improving outcomes for patients diagnosed with this often-deadly disease.

Across the state, healthcare professionals are witnessing a significant number of cases linked to tobacco use. Dr. Scott Pierce from CHI Saint Joseph Hospital treats over 5,000 cancer patients each year, noting that roughly half of his patients have illnesses attributable to tobacco. Lung cancer, along with cancers of the bronchus, holds the unfortunate title of being the deadliest cancer in the U.S., according to the National Cancer Institute.

Early detection remains vital, as symptoms of lung cancer—such as persistent cough or unexplained weight loss—are often subtle and can lead to diagnoses occurring in later stages. When lung cancer is detected at an early stage, the survival rate improves dramatically, from a mere 4% to as high as 55% when surgical intervention is possible.

Despite the clear benefits of lung cancer screenings, participation among eligible patients remains low. In response to this challenge, the Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation is actively working to enhance access to lung cancer screening, particularly in underserved communities across the state. Their Kentucky LEADS initiative has contributed to a 10% reduction in late-stage diagnoses and has successfully increased screening rates.

Building on the successes in Kentucky, the BMS Foundation has introduced programs like QUILS™ aiming to extend successful screening efforts to other states, including Mississippi and Nevada. Meanwhile, areas such as Los Angeles County, where screening rates hover around 5-6%, have also received attention. A recent grant of $2.5 million was awarded to UCLA Health to help improve access to critical screenings in this region.

Research continues to support the identification of high-risk populations for lung cancer, including veterans with specific risk factors. The landscape of lung cancer treatment is evolving, as the advancements in medicine are enabling better outcomes for patients regardless of smoking history, exemplified by individuals like Elizabeth Williams.

Diagnosed in 2020 after noticing a persistent cough despite never smoking, Williams underwent treatment for lung cancer and was found to have an EGFR mutation, which allowed for targeted therapy that led her to remission. As the CDC reported close to 132,000 lung cancer deaths in the U.S. in 2022, stories like Williams’ serve as encouragement for others to seek early screening and not delay necessary treatment. With advancements in treatment and increased awareness of the importance of early detection, the hope is that more lives can be saved in the fight against lung cancer.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Additional Resources

Progress in the Fight Against Lung Cancer in Kentucky

HERE Lexington
Author: HERE Lexington

ADD MORE INFORMATION OR CONTRIBUTE TO OUR ARTICLE CLICK HERE!
Article Sponsored by:

Want to target the right audience? Sponsor our site and choose your specific industry to connect with a relevant audience.

What Sponsors Receive:
Prominent brand mentions across targeted, industry-focused articles
High-visibility placements that speak directly to an engaged local audience
Guaranteed coverage that maximizes exposure and reinforces your brand presence
Interested in seeing what sponsored content looks like on our platform?
Browse Examples of Sponsored News and Articles:
May’s Roofing & Contracting
Forwal Construction
NSC Clips
Real Internet Sales
Suited
Florida4Golf
Click the button below to sponsor our articles:

Construction Management Software for Contractors in Lexington, KY

For contractors in Lexington, KY, CMiC offers an industry-leading construction management platform designed to simplify financial oversight and streamline project coordination. With features such as automated reporting, mobile field access, and real-time data synchronization, CMiC ensures that Lexington contractors can efficiently manage budgets, subcontractors, and scheduling.

Learn More about CMiC’s offerings here. 

Stay Connected

More Updates

Would You Like To Add Your Business?

Sign Up Now and get your local business listed!