Alberta study aims to catch lung cancer earlier

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death among men and women and researchers have launched a new study to figure out how to identify and treat the disease before it’s too late.

The study begane recruiting participants in Calgary and Edmonton earlier this year. Researchers hope they can determine the best criteria for catching the deadly disease while it’s still treatable. The study involves annual low-dose CT scans for three years seeking to identify smokers and ex-smokers most at risk for lung cancer. AHS is providing access to the scanners and staff to operate them.

So far, the screening has already identified one patieht with an early state lung cancer called adenocarcinoma which has been successfully removes with surgery. Alberta Cancer Foundation CEO Myka Osinchuk says, “The fact that researchers have already detected lung cancer this early into the project shows the immediate impact this investment is having on Alberta cancer patients.” The foundation is trying to raise $2.5-million for the pilot project.

Although lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death for both men and women, most cases go undiagnosed until the disease is at such an advanced stage treatments rarely lead to a cure. Researchers are looking to enrol a total of 800 people. The screening program will be the only one of its kind in Canada.

Smokers and ex-smokers between the ages of 55 and 80 might be eligible to become participants. Those interested can find a screening questionnaire online at www.ucalgary.ca/lungscreening or they can call the study office at 403-210-6862 or 1-844-210-6862.

Agencies/Canadajournal