Lung cancer is a somewhat stigmatized disease given its association with smoking. According to Statistics Canada, in 2011 approximately 20 percent of adult Canadians are smokers. Without question this results in lung cancer being amongst the most common of cancers. According to the World Health Organization lung cancer is the second most diagnosed cancer in both men and women in Canada. However, there is not a regular screening program in place for early detection.
Does lung cancer get the attention and support it deserves?
As Naturopathic Doctors we emphasize prevention, and early detection of cancer dramatically increases one’s chances of survival. Knowing the warning signs can lead to prompt diagnostic testing. Screening tests such as colonoscopes for colon cancer and mammograms for breast cancer also help to detect cancers even before clinical symptoms are present.
Chest X-rays and CT scans can show nodules and masses in the lungs. However, they also emit radiation to the area and are not routinely done. Two-thirds of lung cancers are diagnosed in advanced stages when patients are exhibiting symptoms. Those diagnosed when the cancer is operable have the best chance of survival. Now a blood test can detect lung cancer up to 4 years prior to a clinical diagnosis based on standard methods. The test can detect seven auto-antibodies that have been shown to be elevated in all types of lung cancer at early stages. Diagnosing lung cancer early saves lives—it triples the survival rate.
Learn more about early detection of lung cancer
If you would like to learn about early detection of lung cancer, please contact the clinic and we are happy to provide detailed information. Naturopathic consultations regarding general cancer prevention and screening are also available.
