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Lung Cancer— Risks, Screenings, and Treatment at UPMC Hamot
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death and the second most diagnosed cancer in the United States. But early detection can save lives. At UPMC Hamot, experts in pulmonary medicine, oncology, and thoracic surgery provide comprehensive care for people at risk.
Who Is at Risk?
Smoking tobacco remains the leading cause of lung cancer in the United States.
Additional risk factors for lung cancer include:
• Family history of lung cancer
• Secondhand smoke exposure
• Environmental pollutants
• Exposure to chemicals, such as radon gas and asbestos
Symptoms of lung cancer include:
• Cough
• Coughing up bloody or rust-colored mucus
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Wheezing
• Unexplained weight loss
Screening Criteria
Early detection is vital for lung cancer, as most early-stage cases are either asymptomatic or symptoms are minimal. Experts at UPMC Hamot offer low-dose CT scans to screen for pulmonary nodules— dense growths made up of tissues or cells that may lead to lung cancer.
Candidates for a lung cancer screening include those who are:
• Between 50 to 80 years old
• Current smokers or those who have quit smoking in the last 15 years
• Those with at least a 20-pack-year history of smoking( one pack per day for 20 years, two packs per day for 10 years).
If a nodule is discovered, the team uses advanced biopsy technology to detect lung cancer early.
Treatment Options
Treatment for lung cancer may vary depending on how advanced the cancer is. For early-stage lung cancer, surgical treatment is typically recommended. For more advanced stages of lung cancer, patients may need a nonsurgical method of treatment.
Why Choose UPMC Hamot
UPMC Hamot is home to one of the region’ s only fully integrated lung cancer programs. Experts use the latest technology to provide the full scope of lung cancer care. We also provide second-opinion services for patients who need additional support or care.
UPMC recently received top ratings from the Society of Thoracic Surgeons( STS) for resection for primary lung cancer. During the reporting period, UPMC performed 1,260 lung cancer resection procedures, making UPMC the highest volume lung cancer surgery program in the region, and among the top two highest volume programs in the nation.
Contact Us Our team offers expert care in your community at UPMC Hamot.
UPMC COMPREHENSIVE LUNG CENTER 2500 W. 12th St., Suite C Erie, PA 16505( 814) 877-8730