November is recognized as Lung Cancer and Lung Disease Awareness Month, and Buena Vista Regional Medical Center is encouraging everyone to take steps toward stronger lungs through early detection and ongoing care.
The lungs play an essential role in keeping the body healthy. Factors such as smoking, air pollution, or certain workplace exposures can damage lung tissue over time, increasing the risk of disease or cancer.
Recognizing symptoms early such as chronic cough, shortness of breath, or unexplained fatigue can be an important step in protecting your lung health.
“Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States,” said Deb Colshan, Director of BVRMC’s Oncology & Infusion Center. “Early detection through a low-dose CT scan can help find lung cancer at its earliest, most treatable stages.”
A low-dose CT scan is the only recommended screening test for lung cancer and is typically covered by insurance for those who qualify. The scan is painless and takes just a few minutes.
Adults ages 50 to 80 with a significant smoking history who currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years are encouraged to talk with their primary care provider about whether they should be screened.
In addition to preventive screenings for those who qualify, there are simple steps everyone can take to support healthier lungs. Avoiding tobacco and secondhand smoke, testing your home for radon, staying physically active and getting recommended vaccinations such as flu and pneumonia shots can all help protect lung function.
For those already living with chronic lung conditions such as COPD, emphysema, asthma or pulmonary fibrosis, BVRMC’s Pulmonary Rehabilitation program helps patients manage symptoms, build strength and improve quality of life.
“Pulmonary rehab combines exercise, education and support to help patients better understand and live with chronic lung disease,” said Callie Hanlon, BVRMC Pulmonary/Cardiac Rehabilitation RN and Care Coordinator. “Our goal is to help people breathe easier and maintain the activities they enjoy.”
Healthy lungs are vital to overall well-being, yet many people take their breathing for granted until problems arise. Taking steps to care for your lungs today can help you stay active, independent and breathing easier for years to come. To learn more about lung cancer screening, talk with your primary care provider. To find out if Pulmonary Rehabilitation is right for you, talk to your primary care provider or call BVRMC’s team at 712.213.8690.