The founder and lead surgeon of the Las Colinas Cancer Center talks about the benefits of early intervention.

Irving, TX – More than 220,000 Americans will be diagnosed with lung cancer in the coming year. While advances in detection and treatment have led to more positive outcomes in some cases, about 155,000 people still lose their lives each year due to this cause.

“The prevalence and potential severity of lung cancer make early detection and intervention critical for improving outcomes,” says Dr. Gregory Echt, founder and lead surgeon at the Las Colinas Cancer Center. “When people at risk for this condition know the signs and symptoms to watch out for, earlier intervention becomes more possible.”

While smoking remains the number one risk factor for lung cancer, it isn’t the only one. Exposure to environmental pollutants, workplace chemicals and asbestos may all promote the development of lung cancer. People who are at risk are urged to speak with their healthcare providers if any of these seven symptoms arise:

• Persistent chest pain
• Coughing that does not resolve or gets increasingly worse over time
• Shortness of breath and/or difficulty breathing
• Chronic lung infections, including pneumonia
• Coughing up blood
• Fatigue and/or weight loss that is unexplained
• Hoarseness in the voice

“These symptoms may arise from other conditions, but getting them checked out right away is very important,” says Dr. Echt. “If lung cancer is the cause, early detection may prove to be lifesaving by paving the way for more effective intervention.”

People who are at risk for lung cancer due to smoking are strongly urged to talk to their doctors for help in quitting. Kicking this habit can dramatically lower lung cancer risks over time while also improving overall health. Heavy smokers with a long history of the habit may also find they are eligible for routine screening for this disease. Undergoing routine screens can help lead to early detection and more positive treatment outcomes.

About Las Colinas Cancer Center
Las Colinas Cancer Center, a Choice Cancer Care Treatment Center, is committed to providing the personalized, compassionate treatment that can make all the difference in cancer care. Our state-of-the-art facility, located in North Texas, offers those battling cancer and blood disorders a safe haven where they can find professional care from some of the nation’s most experienced oncology specialists in a supportive, caring environment with an integrated approach to treatment.