Metro East Sun

Hospital Sisters Health System (HSHS) is urging eligible adults to include a lung cancer CT scan in their November plans, coinciding with Lung Cancer Awareness Month. This screening can identify nodules or spots on the lungs, potentially early signs of lung cancer.

Adults aged 50 or older with a smoking history—at least one pack per day for 20 years or two packs per day for 10 years—are at risk. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, lung cancer causes more deaths in the United States than any other cancer type.

Despite this, the national screening rate for lung cancer is only 6%, as reported by the American College of Surgeons. This figure is significantly lower compared to colorectal and breast cancer screenings, which have rates of 70% and 80%, respectively.

Dr. Brian A. Reichardt, a pulmonologist at HSHS Medical Group Multispecialty Care in O’Fallon and HSHS Medical Group Pulmonology Specialty Clinic in Breese, reassures that a low-dose lung cancer CT scan is straightforward. It takes just a minute while patients lie on a table that moves through the machine.

“In the time it takes to text your friends about dinner plans, you can complete a lung cancer screening,” Reichardt stated. “It’s quick, painless and noninvasive.”

Dr. Reichardt emphasizes that although smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, about 10% to 20% of cases occur in individuals who have never smoked or smoked fewer than 100 cigarettes in their lifetime.

“Being exposed to secondhand smoke can play a part, as nonsmokers have a 20% to 30% greater chance of developing lung cancer if they are exposed to secondhand smoke at home or work. Other factors may include radon, occupational exposures to carcinogens and outdoor air pollution,” he explained.

If an abnormality is detected during a scan, HSHS ministries in Illinois provide necessary care and support throughout the patient's treatment journey. The HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital's cancer program in O’Fallon holds accreditation from the Commission on Cancer by the American College of Surgeons.

Early detection remains crucial since lung cancer often presents no initial symptoms. The American Lung Association notes that if detected before spreading, patients have a 63% higher chance of surviving at least five more years.

Patients should consult their primary care provider regarding personal risks and seek referrals for lung cancer CT screenings. After obtaining a referral, appointments can be scheduled through HSHS central scheduling at 217-757-6565 at any convenient location.