Springfield, Ill. – During a recent segment of WTAX Morning Newswatch, two local medical leaders shared vital information about lung‑cancer detection and treatment options available right here in Springfield. Emily Fendrich, representing SIU Medicine, and Richelle Loftus of Memorial Health, discussed how residents can benefit from modern screening techniques and minimally invasive procedures.
Understanding the risk
Fendrich noted that the overwhelming majority of lung‑cancer cases—”85 to 90%”—are linked to smoking. She also emphasized that a smaller, yet significant, portion of patients—”10 to 15%”—have never smoked but can still develop the disease. “From what I know, he had a type of lung cancer called an adenocarcinoma, which is actually the most common type of lung cancer, and it is definitely, by far, the most common type of lung cancer among those who have never smoked,” she said, referencing the Pope’s diagnosis as a reminder that anyone can be affected.
Screening options in Springfield
Loftus explained the pathway to screening. “We schedule a lung‑screening discussion, which is where Emily comes in and discusses the particular person and their pathway, and then we can also do a low‑dose CT scan,” she said. The low‑dose CT scan, described by Fendrich as “a fancy way of saying a CT scanner, a CAT scan of the chest,” functions similarly to other routine screenings such as mammograms, colonoscopies, and pap smears—providing a non‑invasive look at lung health.
Robotic bronchoscopy: a new diagnostic tool
Both experts highlighted a cutting‑edge procedure called robotic bronchoscopy, now available through Memorial Health and SIU Medicine. “It’s a CT‑guided biopsy where we can go in and reach nodules that we previously weren’t able to do and get a biopsy or a tissue diagnosis of whatever we’re concerned about,” Fendrich explained. While the procedure does not remove cancer, it offers a precise diagnosis that guides subsequent treatment decisions.
Why early detection matters
Early detection remains the most effective strategy for improving outcomes in lung‑cancer patients. By identifying suspicious nodules before they grow, physicians can recommend timely interventions, whether surgical, medical, or a combination of therapies. The availability of low‑dose CT scans and robotic bronchoscopy in Springfield means residents no longer need to travel far for state‑of‑the‑art diagnostic care.
How to get started
Residents interested in learning whether they qualify for lung‑cancer screening should contact Memorial Health or SIU Medicine to arrange a screening discussion. During that conversation, clinicians will review personal risk factors—such as smoking history, age, and family history—and determine the appropriate next steps, including scheduling a low‑dose CT scan.
Community impact
By raising awareness on a popular local radio platform, Fendrich and Loftus hope to encourage more Springfield families to take proactive steps toward lung health. Their message aligns with broader public‑health goals of reducing cancer mortality through early detection and accessible, high‑quality care.
For more information, Springfield residents can call Memorial Health’s lung‑screening line or visit the SIU Medicine website.
Original reporting: Capitol City Now (WTAX 1240 Springfield) — read the source article.
