Did you know that lung cancer causes more deaths per year in the United States than prostate, breast and colon cancers combined? However, the disease does have a more than 50% five-year survival rate if it is detected early.
This November, in honor of Lung Cancer Awareness Month, we encourage readers to become educated on the realities of this disease: Are you at risk? How can you detect signs early? What are the current treatment options?
For those who are at an increased risk, Torrance Memorial offers a low-dose CT screening. People who are between the ages of 50 and 74, have a more than incidental smoking history and have smoked during the past 15 years should consider being screened.
The cost of the exam is $350 (not covered by insurance) and requires a physician’s order. For more information, contact the Cancer Resource Center at 310-517-4665. To learn more about lung cancer in general, visit the
American Lung Association.