Mid-Michigan Hospitals Launch Weekend Lung Cancer Screenings

Officials from MyMichigan Health have announced that they will provide lung cancer screenings on Saturday, November 8, 2023, at six locations across mid-Michigan. This initiative coincides with National Lung Cancer Screening Day and aims to enhance access to potentially life-saving screenings for working individuals.

The screenings will be available from 09:00 to 12:00 at medical centers located in Alma, Alpena, Midland, Saginaw, Tawas, and West Branch. According to Dr. James Fenton, a thoracic surgeon at MyMichigan Health, extending screening hours to the weekend allows individuals to participate without needing to take time off work during the week.

Importance of Early Detection

“A low dose CT scan is the single most effective strategy for reducing mortality from lung cancer,” Dr. Fenton stated. Lung cancer is projected to result in the deaths of more than 127,000 Americans this year, making it one of the deadliest forms of cancer. Despite the availability of screening, only a small percentage of individuals eligible for lung cancer screenings actually undergo the tests.

The screenings specifically target individuals who smoke or have smoked within the last 15 years and currently exhibit no symptoms such as pain, persistent cough, or unexplained weight loss. The low-dose CT scan is intended to detect lung cancer in its early stages, when treatment options are more effective.

“This screening is designed to find lung cancer at an early stage when more successful treatments can be offered,” Dr. Fenton noted. “Without a screening, most lung cancers are typically discovered at a late stage.”

Eligibility Criteria

Eligible candidates for the screenings include adults aged 50 to 80 who are current smokers or have quit within the past 15 years. They must also have a smoking history equivalent to 20 pack years. This includes anyone who has smoked at least 10 cigarettes per day for 40 years, one pack per day for 20 years, or two packs per day for 10 years.

Individuals seeking to participate in the screening must be asymptomatic and have not undergone a low-dose CT lung screening within the past year. Those interested in scheduling a screening can contact the MyMichigan Access Center at 989-633-5252. Additional information about the comprehensive lung care program is available at mymichigan.org/lung.

This initiative represents an important step in enhancing public health awareness and providing crucial resources to combat lung cancer in the region.