August White: Health emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis of lung cancer – State Department of Health

Santa Catarina is the sixth state in the country in cases of tracheal, bronchial and lung cancer, according to data from the National Cancer Institute (INCA). A reference in the treatment of thoracic neoplasms, the Oncological Research Center (CEPON), a State Government unit, performed more than 80 lung cancer surgeries between January and July 2024. White August draws attention to early diagnosis and awareness of the disease.

Photo: Ascom/SES Publication

According to the General Director of CEPON and thoracic surgeon, Dr. Marcelo Zanchet, the earlier the patient begins treatment, the greater the chance of recovery from disease. “The cure rate for an early stage patient reaches 90%. Therefore, it is important to be aware when a person coughs up bloody sputum or changes in the coughing pattern. In these cases, it must be investigated as soon as possible,” he says.

Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of death from neoplasms worldwide. Despite being a common type of tumor and causing many deaths, this is a disease that can be prevented. White August, who draws attention to early diagnosis and awareness of the disease, also emphasizes the importance of avoiding the main causes of this condition: cigarettes and passive exposure to tobacco.

“If the patient is over 50 years old, is a smoker or has been a smoker for years, or has been diagnosed with pneumonia in the same place more than once, the symptoms should be investigated. Patients with chest pain, changes in hands, such as digital clubbing, in which the nail acts as a watch glass, should also check for lung lesions”, says Zanchet, who says that the the biggest challenge today is to find cancer early and start treatment at an early stage.

In Brazil, according to INCA, 32,560 new cases of lung cancer are estimated for 2024. In the Southern Region, the highest incidence rates are observed for men and women. In men, it is the second most common neoplasm in the Southern Region (31.54 per 100 thousand). In Santa Catarina, 2,090 new cases are estimated. Of these, 160 cases are expected for Florianópolis.

It is recommended that patients over 50 years of age, who smoke or who quit less than 15 years ago, have an annual computed tomography scan with dose low radiation, to get early detection. “The screening test with computed tomography is indicated for the detection of suspicious lesions in the lungs and, followed by an appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic method, reduces mortality from the disease by 20% or more”, said director general CEPON.

The best way to prevent lung cancer is to stay away from risk factors, especially smoking. But for those who have already been exposed or are still exposed to them, it is essential to be aware of the importance of smoking cessation and screening tests. Today, medicine has advanced tools to identify tumors at an early stage and carry out treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment save lives.

CEPON is part of the State Health Department (SES) network of hospitals and is managed by FAHECE.