Apollo Cancer Centers (ACC) launches India’s first LungLife Screening Programme in the fight to detect lung cancer early. It focuses on the area that contributes to 5.9 percent of all cancers and 8.1 percent of cancer deaths. Diagnosis at early stages is focused on for changing the treatment outcome and increasing survival rate.
The International Agency for Research on Cancer states that GLOBOCAN 2020 estimates the lung cancer to be still the most common cause of cancer death, accounting for an estimated 1.8 million deaths (18% of total cancer deaths) in 2020. The LungLife Screening Programme is intended for those at highest risk for lung cancer and based on the premise of early screening with LDCT. These include adults aged between 50 and 80, symptom-free individuals with no signs related to lung cancer, very chronic smokers, and those related to a family history of having lung cancer.
The program aims to fill a critical gap in the early detection of lung cancer, particularly among high-risk populations. Even though there is convincing evidence that LDCT improves survival substantially by identifying lung cancer earlier and when it is still treatable, nearly 80% of the at-risk population has never had a discussion with a healthcare provider about screening. There is a need for better awareness and communication of the need for lung cancer screening to save lives.
Dr. Nikhil Modi, Senior Consultant in Pulmonology at Apollo Cancer Centre, New Delhi said: “Lung cancer still is one of the most lethal cancers in the world; however, with an early detection, survival is enhanced dramatically. Our LungLife Screening Programme is especially tailored for identification of high-risk subjects early on, with state-of-the-art low-dose CT technology for accurate diagnosis”.
This technology minimizes radiation exposure while maximizing diagnostic accuracy. The program is especially useful for people with a history of smoking, passive smoking exposure, or a family history of lung cancer. This can be achieved by diagnosing the disease at an early and treatable stage so that we can provide better treatment outcomes and give them hope for a healthier future.
This initiative by Apollo Cancer Centers marks a significant stride forward in the fight against lung cancer in India and demonstrates to the people the importance of early detection in improving patient outcomes, he says.
