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#lungcancerscreening at the World conference on lung cancer - my summary (4/4) #wclc24 is over, time to summarize my 4 key takeaways: (1) Growth (2) Eligibility (3) Incidental nodules (4) Impact beyond lung cancer from #lungcancerscreening (in this post) In my eyes, one of the most underrated presentation came from Robert Dziedzic from Gdansk, a colleague of Witold Rzyman. A propensity-matched cohort study based on data from the Polish lung cancer screening program. Unfortunately, relatively late in the conference and in a short slot. Poland has a highly digitalized healthcare system that allows studies like this: They compared the data from the screening participants with a matched sample from the general population, matched by similar risk factors. What he showed was a significantly lower all-cause mortality in the screened population, and, what was striking: The overall survival benefit was actually bigger than only the benefit on lung cancer. Together with the recent long-term analysis from UK (Professor John Field) this is another proof of additional survival benefit from #lungcancerscreening outside lung cancer. While the UKLS data was from a randomized clinical trial, this is real-world data. As usual in cohort-studies, we can only speculate what factors contribute to this added survival benefit - is it access to better cardiological care within the screening population? Or impact on COPD mortality, as in the UK? There were some more presentations on non-oncologic impacts of lung screening, onme example was a study on firefighters, which didn't show an above-average incidence of lung nodules (which was the hypothesis, due to exposure to smoke), but an above-average prevalence of cardiac conditions (maybe due to unhealthy lifestyle with night-shifts and stress?). This encourages more research. In any case, this was very important: (a) together with NLST and now UKLS it finally really should end the questions about "all-cause mortality in lung cancer screening" - we now have lot of data on this. (b) The mortality benefits of #lungcancersceening on other diseases ecist. As we all know, lung cancer has joint risk factors with many other diseases, and we start seeing data on beneficial effects on these. I am currently at the International Early Lung Cancer Action Program (I-ELCAP) meeting on combining lung cancer screening with early detection of cardiac diseases - more to come One remark: This fits with what Ray Osarogiagbon mentioned: We saw screening data with enormous impact on survival, basically turning around survival and mortality (from 80% mortality to 80% survival). Where in the #wclc24 program would a drug study with similar impact have been featured? International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer, got the hint? As LinkedIn likes posts with pictures, I attach the one with four lung cancer experts crossing a street - who knows how this relates to the history of computed tomography? Write it in the comments!

Throughout #LungCancerAwarenessMonth – and beyond - more must be done to raise awareness This November, Lung Cancer Awareness Month aims to raise attention to the signs and symptoms of lung cancer. Findings from the GLCC’s latest consumer polling show there is still work to be done, with nearly four out of ten people (37.5%) not knowing any symptoms of lung cancer. For young people (aged 18-24) this number is even higher, with 45.11% of respondents not knowing any symptoms. These numbers are worrying as diagnosing lung cancer early dramatically increases people’s chances of survival. For example, in the UK those diagnosed at stages one or two are nearly 20 times more likely to survive for five years or more than those whose cancer is caught at later stages. The stigma around lung cancer, due to its links with smoking, creates additional challenges for policymakers looking to take action, with the same study finding 43% of people globally agreed they have less sympathy for people with lung cancer than other types of cancer. Commenting on the findings, Matthew Peters, Chair of the GLCC, notes only ‘’concerted political action’’ can bring about effective change to address the twofold problem of lack of awareness and lack of sympathy that is hampering healthcare systems worldwide in their efforts to reduce the burden of lung cancer and improve outcomes for all affected by the disease.” To this end, the GLCC is calling for policymakers worldwide to work with the health system to:  ·     Increase recognition of lung cancer symptoms through targeted public awareness campaigns. ·     Improve public education and understanding of lung cancer and its causes to reduce stigma.  ·     Highlight the importance of early diagnosis and treatment in improving survival to encourage more people to seek help early. ·     Implement a national lung cancer screening programme to help people get diagnosed and into treatment as early as possible. In addition to the symptom of a cough for three weeks or more, other symptoms of lung cancer include: 1. chest infections that keep coming back 2. coughing up blood 3. a long-standing cough that gets worse 4. an ache or pain when breathing or coughing 5. persistent breathlessness 6. persistent tiredness or lack of energy 7. loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss Notes: The study was conducted across the following 29 countries with responses received from at least 1,000 adults per country: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Czech Republic, Denmark, Egypt, France, Germany, Great Britain, Greece, Italy, Israel, Japan, 

Every year, 2 billion Chest X-rays are performed in the world. Pulmonary nodules (>3mm) are present in at least 5-10% of adults. Most are visible on CTs, with a significant proportion visible on X-rays, too. This makes us think about how we have underutilised what we already have in abundance: X-rays. In my recent collaboration with Lung Cancer Policy Network along with noteworthy contributions from Arnaud PAPIN, Javier J Z., Caius K., Ranjana Devi and many others for a #LungCancerPolicyNetwork report(1), I emphasised the usage of AI in the detection, tracking, and follow-up of IPNs. Qure.ai's MRMC Study(2, submitted to FDA and cleared for CADe) proves that 30% of nodules are missed on Chest X-rays (with CT as the ground truth): Assuming 70 million Chest X-rays are done annually, approximately 1 million nodules are missed every year. Some of these nodules are malignant and, if followed up early and placed on the incidental pulmonary nodule (IPN) pathway, could lead to early-stage cancer detection. However, if ignored due to the absence of symptoms, they could progress to late-stage cancer. Currently, 73% of lung cancers in the US are detected at late stages. Nodules detected outside targeted screening from scans taken for reasons other than suspicion of lung cancer are called IPNs. In the US alone, an additional 63,000 diagnoses within 2 years of IPN detection can be confirmed. However, 3 out of 5 nodule cases are missed in follow-up.  As for screening programs, 54% of lung cancer cases In Mississippi and 75% in Brazil occur in people not eligible for LDCT screening, as per studies. While LDCT helps in earlier detection, it’s not enough or feasible in all healthcare settings. To increase the net of lung cancer diagnoses, AI can be used on every chest x-ray taken to scan for lung cancer risk regardless of symptom. AI can help detect, track and follow up IPNs to ensure that suspicious lung nodules are effectively managed and treated. 1) LCPN Report : https://lnkd.in/d2_2H56C 2) Qure's MRMC Summary and Study (Submitted to FDA and Published in a journal): https://lnkd.in/d-ZANwXG https://lnkd.in/dAg5UEYB #lungcancer #policyshaping #oncology #cancercare #pulmonogist

The VCCC Alliance welcomes the announcement from Federal Minister for Health and Aged Care, The Hon Mark Butler MP, to invest in a $1.89 billion Health Research for a Future Made in Australia package and the development of a new National Health and Medical Research Strategy. In particular, VCCC Alliance CEO Prof Grant McArthur applauded the investment in a Low Survival Cancers Mission, to focus on improving outcomes for people with cancer with five-year survival rates of less than 50 per cent. This includes common cancers such as pancreatic, lung and liver cancer. “The VCCC Alliance has a significant focus on improving outcomes for low survival cancers including brain, lung, pancreatic and liver,” Prof McArthur said. “Our Centre for Cancer Immunotherapy, supported by VCCC Alliance funding, is developing new approaches to treating chronic Hepatitis B infection and liver cancer using cutting-edge mRNA technology.” Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care Grant McArthur AO Sanchia Aranda AM Read more: https://lnkd.in/gkfmnCS2

The annual Apollo Cancer Conclave is an important event in the cancer care and treatment, patients and caregivers communities in India. This year, the 3-day conclave, at its 7th year, and as usual, had the country’s leading oncologists, and experts from all over the world. They congregated in Mumbai for a treatment- and solutions-focussed conclave.  World Health Organization Apollo Hospitals Like most cancer conferences or conclaves, the realities were grim. But the best news first: All experts emphasised that cancer is no longer to be feared. There are a host of treatment options available if not diagnosed at a very advanced stage. This year's conclave was about a variety of novel treatment approaches that are changing mortality rates and lifespans as well as health spans of cancer patients. But the biggest insights pointed to the individual: The onus is on us to be aware, recognise symptoms and go nothing that raises doubts go unchecked by doctors. Key insights from the conclave: * 1.4 million cancer diagnoses occur every year in India. * In men, the most common types of cancer are lip and oral cavity cancers (16%), lung cancer (8%), oesophageal cancer (7%), colorectal cancer (6%), and stomach cancer (6%). * For women, breast cancer is the leading cancer type, accounting for 27% of all cancer cases in women. Other common cancers in women include cervix and uterine cancer (18%), ovarian cancer (7%), and lip and oral cavity cancer (5%). Cancer-related deaths in India are staggering and at least 960,000 deaths annually. However, many of these are preventable if patients avoided known risk factors, such as tobacco, areca nut, and other forms of tobacco products that people chew. A breakthrough in prevention is the HPV vaccine, which is nearly 100% effective in preventing cervical cancer. The target age for vaccination is 9-13 years. The cancer burden in India will double by 2050, affecting every family. Early diagnosis is critical to improving prognosis and reducing mortality. It is essential that the public seeks medical care immediately when symptoms appear. If you notice a pain or discomfort that’s not going away, a lesion of lump you can feel, unexpected weight gain, loss of appetite —- these are common symptoms of a variety of cancers. Be aware, be attuned to your body and get them checked. #cancer #cancercare #oncology #apollocancerconclave #cancertreatment #cancerawareness #cancerporevention #health #wellbeing #theslowfix #iLinkedin #linkedingrowth

In a landmark move for lung cancer care, Malaysia is making commendable progress in its initiative to enhance lung cancer screening through AI-driven technology in government health facilities. With 90% of lung tumours detected in late stages, this initiative offers hope for earlier detection, timely treatment, and improved survival outcomes, positioning AI as a valuable tool in enhancing cancer care. As part of this initiative, a significant milestone has already been achieved: the early-stage diagnosis of lung cancer in a 67-year-old individual, whose subtle abnormalities were detected during a routine AI-enhanced chest X-ray screening. This case prompted further investigations that led to timely interventions and early discharge, underscoring the potential of AI to reshape cancer care and improve patient outcomes. The introduction of AI in lung cancer screening presents a significant opportunity to scale early detection programmes nationwide. By analysing medical imaging data, AI identifies patterns that may indicate cancer—details that human eyes might overlook. This technology not only facilitates earlier diagnosis but also serves as a pre-screening tool, allowing clinicians to prioritise cases for further scan referrals. This structured workflow enhances screening efficiency and expands capacity, particularly in resource-constrained healthcare settings, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable healthcare model. This achievement was made possible through a collaborative initiative aiming to facilitate early lung cancer screening, currently in its third phase, between AstraZeneca Malaysia and the Lung Cancer Network Malaysia (LCNM). The Ministry Of Health, Malaysia (KKM) has also demonstrated strong support for this effort, focusing on enhancing early lung cancer screening through the integration of advanced AI technologies into both private clinics and public hospitals. This drives a more integrated approach to cancer care, improving the efficiency and accuracy of early lung cancer diagnoses while reducing the financial burden on the healthcare system. Looking ahead, this initial milestone paves the way for expanding AI-driven screening, reinforcing Malaysia’s commitment to improving cancer care and patient outcomes, while also offering a valuable model for other APAC health systems. At ASPIRE, we are excited to support Malaysia’s journey with AI-driven healthcare, aiming to enhance lung cancer outcomes and overall healthcare efficiency while advancing care across the region. Read more here: https://lnkd.in/g2qmWRii #LungCancer #AIHealthScreening #EarlyDetection #LungCancerScreening #AIHealthcare #AIinRadiology

Pancreatic cancer is a significant global health issue, recognized as one of the deadliest forms of cancer. Here are key insights into its prevalence, awareness initiatives, and the challenges surrounding early detection. ## Global Statistics - **Incidence**: In 2022, there were over **510,992 new cases** of pancreatic cancer worldwide, making it the **12th most common cancer** globally. It ranks as the **11th most common cancer** in both men and women. - **Mortality**: The disease resulted in approximately **467,409 deaths** in the same year, highlighting its lethal nature. - **Highest Rates**: The countries with the highest incidence rates include:  - **China**: 118,672 cases (ASR: 4.4/100,000)  - **United States**: 60,127 cases (ASR: 8.6/100,000)  - **Japan**: 47,627 cases (ASR: 9.8/100,000)   - Notably, **Uruguay** had the highest overall rate of pancreatic cancer incidence in 2022. ## Awareness and Advocacy November is recognized as **Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month**, culminating in **World Pancreatic Cancer Day**, which aims to raise awareness about the disease and promote early detection efforts. This year's observance will take place on November 21, 2024. ### Key Messages - **Early Detection**: There is currently no standard test for early detection of pancreatic cancer, which significantly impacts survival rates. Vague symptoms often lead to late diagnoses. - **Symptoms to Watch For**:  - Abdominal or back pain  - Unexplained weight loss  - Jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes)  - Loss of appetite  - Nausea  - Changes in stool  - New-onset diabetes. ### Community Initiatives Organizations like the **Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN)** and the **World Pancreatic Cancer Coalition** are actively working to educate the public about risk factors and symptoms while advocating for increased research funding and patient support services. ## Challenges Ahead Despite progress in awareness and advocacy, pancreatic cancer remains difficult to treat due to its late-stage diagnosis in most cases. Continuous efforts are needed to improve early detection methods and enhance treatment options for patients. The collective push from organizations and communities aims to change the course of this disease through education, support, and research initiatives.

Addressing Lung Cancer Screening in #NorthCarolina—Insights from the 2024 State of Lung Cancer Report #LungCancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths ☠️ in the 🇺🇸 United States. However, hope is on the horizon. The 2024 State of Lung Cancer report from the American Lung Association highlights remarkable progress in this fight 🥊. The report also emphasizes persistent challenges, especially in screening and early detection. In the State of North Carolina, lung cancer screening rates are alarmingly low. While lung cancer screening with low-dose CT can reduce mortality by up to 20% 🙌, barriers such as lack of #awareness, limited #access to screening facilities, and #stigma around lung cancer continue to hinder progress. 🧱Barriers to Screening: #Stigma: Many patients face judgment due to the historical association of lung cancer with smoking 🚬, ignoring the fact that non-tobacco users are also at risk due to factors like ☢️radon exposure and 💨air pollution. (1/5, 20% non-tobacco related) #Access Disparities: Rural communities and underserved populations often lack nearby screening centers or transportation 🚙 options. #Awareness: Many eligible individuals are unaware 🤷 of their risk or the lifesaving 🛟 potential of annual screenings. 🥊 Combating These Challenges: #RaisingAwareness: 📈 We must prioritize public education 📚 campaigns to normalize lung cancer screening and separate the disease from blame and stigma. #ImprovingAccess: Expanding mobile screening units 🚐 and establishing more screening centers in rural areas can reduce geographical barriers. #Advocacy: Advocating for insurance coverage of biomarker testing 🧬 and ensuring equitable access to lung cancer care for all populations, regardless of race or socioeconomic status, is critical. As a pulmonologist 🫁 and advocate for early detection, I’m passionate about reducing lung cancer disparities in our state. Let’s use the insights from the State of Lung Cancer report to push for change, ensuring that every North Carolinian at risk has the #opportunity to be screened and diagnosed early. #Together, we can turn hope into action. How will you help address these barriers in your community? Let’s discuss in the comments! #LungCancer #Screening #cancer #PublicHealth #NCHealthcare #StateofLungCancer2024 #healthequity #lcsm #healthcare #LungCancerScreening #Future #Health #Innovation #Technology Lung Cancer Initiative - join us! Society for Advanced Bronchoscopy American Lung Association American Cancer Society November = #LungCancerAwareness

July signifies that fire season is well underway! But did you know firefighters are significantly at higher risk for developing cancer than the general population? In fact, more than 68% of all firefighters will develop some form of cancer in their lifetimes [1]. Sadly, cancer caused 70% of the line-of-duty deaths for career firefighters in 2016 alone [2]. Awareness is crucial when quantifying cancer’s toll on these brave men and women, as well as their families. The statistics show cancer is the most dangerous threat to these heroes’ health and safety. Take a look at the stats below and how many more times at risk firefighters are than the average patient for contracting the following cancers: ● Mesothelioma – 2.0 times greater risk ● Multiple Myeloma – 1.53 times greater risk ● Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma – 1.51 times greater risk ● Testicular Cancer – 2.02 times the risk ● Skin Cancer – 1.39 times greater risk ● Malignant Melanoma – 1.31 times greater risk ● Brain Cancer – 1.31 times greater risk ● Prostate Cancer – 1.28 times greater risk ● Colon Cancer -1.21 times great risk ● Leukemia – 1.14 times greater risk Put another way, firefighters have a 100 percent increased risk (100% = double = 2 times) of getting mesothelioma (alone). Luckily for ALL patients, diagnostic testing (offered through Recuro Primary Care: https://hubs.li/Q02H0XnN0) helps identify problems at an early stage when treatment is most effective. In fact, studies have shown that treatment for cancer patients who have been diagnosed early are 2 to 4 times less expensive compared to treating people diagnosed with cancer at more advanced stages. [2] Sadly, most patients avoid screenings due to inconvenient travel, time off work, or sometimes both. Thankfully - Recuro Primary Care eliminates this hassle, allowing virtual consults anytime, anywhere, nationwide! By Making Advanced Healthcare Accessible™ Recuro is providing easy access to at-home screenings, lab tests, and regular virtual check-ups to incentivize our patients to take preventative care seriously. Book your next Recuro Primary Care appointment now: https://hubs.li/Q02H0XMc0. If you wish to donate to help these unsung heroes, please visit: https://hubs.li/Q02H1dQ10 Sources: [1] https://hubs.li/Q02H1dsJ0 [2] https://hubs.li/Q02H0XN80 [2] https://hubs.li/Q02H1gLH0 #Firefighters #Cancer #CancerPrevention #Telehealth #Recuro #RecuroHealth Phil Fasano Michael Brombach Kimberly Darling Matthew Turrin, CPA Jennifer Balliet Victor Wong, MHA Quinn Pearl Bill Fryling Jon O'Toole Matthew Erickson, CSM Marlene Ocampo Kellye Phillips

March marks the beginning of Colon Cancer Awareness Month. Take charge of your colon health from the comfort of your home with Recuro Primary Care! We're diving deep into the facts and preventative measures that you need to know - read our latest blog for more info: https://hubs.li/Q02n64480 ● What is Colorectal Cancer? Colorectal cancer is a preventable disease, but screening can be challenging. Our blog article breaks down the details, including when to start regular screenings and how our at-home colon cancer test works. ● Understanding the Gravity: With over 153,000 new cases in 2023 and more than 52,000 deaths, colorectal cancer ranks as the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the US. [2] Spreading awareness is half the battle. Recuro Primary Care offers comprehensive screening for patients! ● Recognizing Symptoms: Colorectal cancer may not always show symptoms, but being proactive with screenings can catch issues early. Look out for changes in bowel habits, blood in stool, persistent pain, and unexplained weight loss. ● Start Screening at 45: Most should begin screening at 45, but earlier if you have certain risk factors like family history or inflammatory bowel disease. Talk to your doctor about personalized screening plans. ● Convenient At-Home Testing: Empower yourself with our at-home colorectal cancer test. It's noninvasive and provides accurate results, making screening more accessible and less intimidating. Recuro also offers screenings for other serious diseases including easy at home tests. ● Embrace Early Detection: Early detection is key! Research shows a 90.9% survival rate when colorectal cancer is caught early. [4] Schedule your Recuro Primary Care appointment today and take control of your health journey! ● Ready to Book? Start your journey to better health by logging into our member portal or downloading the Recuro Care app (https://hubs.li/Q02n64l40). Let's prioritize your well-being together! Learn more about the dangers of Colorectal Cancer at https://hubs.li/Q02n64480 Together, We're Making Advanced Healthcare Accessible™ #ColorectalCancerAwareness #EarlyDetection #RecuroHealth #ColonCancer Phil Fasano Michael Brombach Kimberly Darling Matthew Turrin, CPA Josh Nordtvedt Allison Martin Jennifer Balliet Quinn Pearl Jon O'Toole Colby Thatcher Kiersi K. Daniel Wang Victor Wong, MHA Matthew Erickson, CSM Marlene Ocampo 1: https://hubs.li/Q02n5ZNT0 2: https://hubs.li/Q02n5SMd0 3: https://hubs.li/Q02n5RdJ0 4: https://hubs.li/Q02n5Sl00 5: https://hubs.li/Q02n5VPk0