Lung Cancer
Overview
Lung cancer is the second most common type of cancer in the U.S. today among both men and women and is the number one cause of cancer-related deaths. While new cases of lung cancer are rising less rapidly than ten years ago, female lung cancer deaths continue to rise. In fact, more women die each year from lung cancer than from breast cancer.
Lung Cancer
Prevention
Although exposure to substances like arsenic, asbestos, air pollution and radon increase the risk of developing lung cancer, cigarette smoking is by far the most important risk factor in the development of lung cancer. Non-smokers who are regularly exposed to second-hand or environmental cigarette smoke are also at risk.
Tobacco use contributes to 1 in 5 deaths in the U.S. today and is the single leading cause of preventable deaths. Smoking is responsible for 30% of all cancer deaths and 87% of lung cancer deaths. The good news is that stopping smoking can reduce your risk for these diseases. Some research suggests that smokers who already have lung cancer may live longer if they stop smoking.
Lung Cancer
Diagnosis
Experts continue to study various methods for screening to detect lung cancer in its earliest stages, when it may be more curable. Until more is known, experts agree that smokers and former smokers should have regular check-ups and may benefit from screening CT scans of the chest.
KHN Radiology and Imaging Departments have state-of-the-art technology, including 32 slice CT scans and PET scans to assess your cancer.
Lung Cancer
Treatment
Treatments for lung cancer may include surgery, radiation therapy, biotherapy and targeted therapy and chemotherapy. KHN Radiation Therapy features high-dose brachytherapy (HDR). The National Cancer Institute offers a comprehensive overview of treatments.
For people facing a lung cancer diagnosis, KHN has the expertise you need. Our team of pulmonologists, surgeons and surgical oncologists, thoracic surgeons, medical and radiation oncologists, radiologists and imaging specialists, critical care physicians, pharmacists, dieticians, specially trained nurses, respiratory and pulmonary rehab therapists, chaplains and more will work together to ensure you receive the best treatment.
Lung Cancer
Support Groups/Education
Looking Ahead Support Group
This group helps individuals living with cancer, their families and friends. For those newly diagnosed with cancer as well as long-term survivors. Meets at Kettering Medical Center on the first Tuesday of each month except June and December. Check the Looking Ahead newsletter or call Cancer Services at (937) 395-8115 for more information.
I Can Cope
This is a series of educational classes for people with cancer, their families and friends. The program helps people meet the challenge of coping with cancer by distinguishing cancer myths from facts. This FREE program provides practical information about cancer, cancer treatments and offers self-care strategies and resources for those facing cancer. This American Cancer Society Program is co-sponsored by Kettering Health Network.
Call the American Cancer Society at 1-888-ACS-OHIO (227-6446) for current dates, location and to register.
Cancer Resource Center
The Cancer Resource Center (CRC) is a collaborative effort between your American Cancer Society and Kettering Medical Center. The CRC is located at Kettering Memorial Hospital, ground floor, adjacent to the Radiation Therapy waiting area, and is open to the public from 9 AM to 4 PM, Monday through Friday, except holidays and during special events. Trained volunteers are available to assist you with information about cancer, cancer prevention and early detection, cancer treatments, coping and support groups and other resources. Information called also be mailed upon request. Call (937) 395-8081.
Makarius Library
The Makarius Library is located at Kettering Memorial Hospital, 3 South. This is a free lending library with materials on cancer, treatment, coping and inspiration. Items may be signed out for up to four weeks. The library is open daily, except during patient care meetings.