LAS VEGAS — November marks Lung Cancer Awareness Month, and the Lung Center of Nevada, a division of Comprehensive Cancer Centers, is using National Lung Screening Day to remind Nevadans at high risk for lung disease to get screened.
Why screening matters in Nevada
The American Cancer Society estimates that 1,770 Nevadans will be diagnosed with lung cancer in 2026 and that 1,050 will die from the disease. Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer death in the state, even as tobacco use declines and fewer new cases are diagnosed.
Despite the seriousness of the disease, screening rates are low. Only 23.7% of eligible Nevadans complete a lung‑cancer screening, leaving Nevada ranked 34th among the 50 states for screening high‑risk patients.
Doctors’ call to action
“National Lung Screening Day is an opportunity to reach out to those who could benefit from early detection,” said Dr. Vishisht Mehta, an interventional pulmonologist at the Lung Center of Nevada. “We encourage anyone who meets the screening criteria to schedule a low‑dose CT scan as soon as possible.”
People who already have an appointment will be seen as scheduled. Those who cannot attend the designated day can still contact the Lung Center, because screenings are offered year‑round through Comprehensive Cancer Centers.
How to qualify for screening
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends annual low‑dose CT screening for adults aged 50 to 80 who have a 20‑pack‑year smoking history and currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years. Residents who meet these criteria should discuss screening with their primary‑care physician or call the Lung Center directly.
Supporting prevention efforts
The awareness campaign also highlights the Great American Smokeout on Nov. 19, a national event that encourages tobacco users to consider quitting. Local health officials note that reduced tobacco use is a key factor in lowering future lung‑cancer diagnoses.
For more information or to schedule a screening, Nevadans can call the Lung Center of Nevada at (702) 555‑1234 or visit the Comprehensive Cancer Centers website.
Original reporting: News 3 KSNV Las Vegas (local) — read the source article.
