Hispanics are at Greater Risk of Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death worldwide, but in the Hispanic community, the risks are even greater. Hispanics are more likely to be diagnosed with lung cancer at an advanced stage compared to other groups, and they are often less likely to be referred for life-saving early screenings. This disparity puts many at a higher risk of dying from lung cancer simply because the disease is caught too late.

At Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, part of UHealth – the University of Miami Health System, we are committed to addressing these gaps. That’s why we’ve launched a new study focusing on early detection of lung cancer in Hispanics — particularly those with a previous history of cancer, as their risk is three times higher than those without prior cancer diagnoses.

By raising awareness and improving access to early screening, we can change these troubling statistics and give our community a fighting chance against the deadliest cancer in the world.

Understanding lung cancer

Lung cancer develops when the cells in your lungs grow uncontrollably. When these cancerous cells spread beyond the lungs to other organs like the brain or lymph nodes, it’s called metastasis. Lung cancer is particularly dangerous because it’s often detected in later stages when treatment is more difficult.

What many people don’t realize is that if you’ve had cancer before, your risk of developing lung cancer is significantly higher — about three times higher than someone without a history of cancer. This makes screening all the more critical.

Who is most at risk?

Smoking is the biggest risk factor, but it’s not just long-time smokers who should be concerned. Smoking increases your chances of developing lung cancer by 15 to 30 times compared to non-smokers. However, anyone can get lung cancer, and early detection can make the difference between life and death.

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. Every year, it claims more lives than breast, prostate and colon cancer combined. If caught early, it can be treated successfully. More than 80% of patients whose lung cancer is detected early with a low-dose CT scan (LDCT) are treated successfully.

Disparities in lung cancer screening: Why Hispanics need to be involved

Lung cancer disproportionately affects the Hispanic population, with more Hispanics being diagnosed at advanced stages compared to non-Hispanics. Even though screening can catch lung cancer early, fewer Hispanics meet the criteria for screening, and many of those who do are not referred to get tested.

In Florida, only 2.4% of high-risk individuals are screened for lung cancer, and this is well below the national average of 4.5%, which is already low. Florida ranks 40th out of all U.S. states for lung cancer screening rates. This means many people at risk are not getting the tests they need to detect the disease early.

How to get screened for lung cancer

The only recommended screening test for lung cancer is the Low-Dose CT scan (LDCT). This scan is quick, painless, and uses a low dose of radiation to take detailed images of your lungs. During the scan, you simply lie on a table while the CT scanner rotates around you to create images of your lungs and chest. The entire process takes just a few minutes and involves no pain or discomfort.

Who should get screened?

You should consider lung cancer screening if you:

• Are between 50 and 80 years old.
• Have a history of smoking at least one pack a day for 20 years or more.
• Currently smoke or have quit within the last 15 years.

If any of the above applies to you, you are at high risk and should talk to your doctor about getting screened. You can get a CT scan at most major cancer centers, including right here at Sylvester.

What happens if something is found?

If your CT scan shows something unusual, like a nodule in your lungs, further tests will be needed to determine if it’s cancerous. This could involve:

• A repeat CT scan to check if the nodule has grown.
• A PET scan to see if the nodule is active.
• A biopsy, where a small piece of tissue is removed and examined under a microscope.

While this may sound concerning, it’s important to remember that early detection through CT scans can make a life-saving difference. In fact, more than 90% of people who have lung cancer detected early are cured.

The impact of early cancer detection: Why it matters

Lung cancer might be the deadliest cancer in the world, but it’s also highly treatable if caught early. Research shows that people who get a low-dose CT scan have a 20% lower risk of dying from lung cancer than those who don’t. The earlier we detect lung cancer, the better your chances are for survival.

For more information about lung cancer screening, studies and treatment, visit the Sylvester website or call 1-844-324-HOPE (4673).

Coral Olazagasti, M.D., is a thoracic medical oncologist at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Tags: cancer prevention, Dr. Coral Olazagasti, family history of lung cancer, hispanic health, thoracic medicine