November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month, a time to support those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, understand the risk factors and warning signs, and raise awareness of how early detection can save lives. UHS is committed to raising awareness about lung cancer and empowering individuals to make informed choices that support lifelong lung health.
According to the American Cancer Society, lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer death in the United States, accounting for about one in five cancer deaths. Each year, more people die from lung cancer than from colon, breast and prostate cancers combined.
In 2026, it is estimated that, in the United States, there will be:
- About 229,410 new cases of lung cancer
- About 124,990 deaths from lung cancer
Lung cancer primarily affects older adults. Most people diagnosed with lung cancer are age 65 or older, while very few cases are diagnosed in people younger than 45. The average age at diagnosis is about 70.
There is encouraging news. The number of new lung cancer cases continues to decline, largely because fewer people are smoking. Lung cancer deaths are also decreasing as a result of reduced tobacco use, earlier detection and advances in treatment.
Early detection remains one of the most important factors in improving outcomes. “Most people who have lung cancer don't experience symptoms in the early stages. Our goal is to screen as many high-risk patients as possible, identify asymptomatic nodules, and diagnose cancer earlier so treatment can begin sooner and save lives,” said Trevor Flanagan, MHA, BS, RRT, director of Pulmonary Services & Special Diagnostics, UHS.
At UHS, our teams are dedicated to innovating care from diagnosis to treatment. Since launching in April 2024, the UHS Ion Robotic Bronchoscopy Program has performed more than 350 procedures, expanding access to advanced diagnostic technology for patients with suspicious lung nodules. This technology supports our goal of diagnosing lung cancer at earlier, more treatable stages.
Physicians use Ion to access all 18 segments of the lungs. The system features an ultra-thin and highly maneuverable catheter, which helps physicians navigate into hard-to-reach areas of the peripheral lung. This advanced technology improves access, stability and precision compared to traditional manual techniques, offering a more effective approach to diagnosing and treating lung conditions.
UHS recently expanded its robotic bronchoscopy program with 3D cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and Cryobiopsy. These investments into our program significantly enhance diagnostic yield, precision, tool-in-lesion confirmation and tissue specimen quality when used in conjunction with robotic bronchoscopy.
For the UHS Pulmonary Department, the Ion gives physicians an opportunity to diagnose cancer early, before symptoms occur. The American Lung Association estimates that 23% of new lung cancer cases are detected at an early stage, helping patients achieve a five-year survival rate of 63%. Before Ion, many patients with suspicious nodules were monitored over time, which sometimes resulted in later intervention.
For UHS patient Candita Lee, early intervention with Ion robotic bronchoscopy made a potentially life-saving impact. To read her story, click here.
Reduce your risk
Smoking remains the leading cause of lung cancer. Other risk factors include exposure to radon gas, asbestos, secondhand smoke, air pollution, and certain genetic or family history factors.
To help address tobacco use, UHS is joining forces with the American Cancer Society to promote the annual Great American Smokeout on November 19. This national campaign encourages smokers to take the first step toward quitting and provides support for those ready to begin their journey. Quitting tobacco is not easy, but creating a plan and seeking support can improve your chances of success. Regardless of how long you have smoked, quitting can provide both immediate and long-term health benefits.
If you are at higher risk for lung cancer, talk with your primary care provider about screening. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends screening for adults ages 50 to 80 who have a significant smoking history and currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years.
Understanding your risk factors and taking advantage of screening opportunities can lead to earlier diagnosis and better outcomes. If you believe you may qualify for lung cancer screening, you can request a screening using the online tool found here.