HARRISBURG, PA — The American Lung Association‘s 2024 “State of Lung Cancer” report brings a mixed bag of findings for Pennsylvania, revealing both significant strides and critical areas needing attention in the fight against this deadly disease. As lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the state and nationwide, the report provides a comprehensive analysis of various indicators, as well as opportunities for further advancement.
The report highlights a commendable 27% improvement in Pennsylvania’s lung cancer survival rates over the past five years, surpassing the national average increase of 26%. Additionally, the state has seen a 16% improvement in new case rates and an 11% improvement in early-stage diagnoses, reflecting progress in early detection and treatment strategies.
Despite these advancements, the report underscores persistent challenges. While Pennsylvania ranks 12th nationally for lung cancer survival and maintains average standings in new cases and early diagnosis, surgical treatment as a first course has witnessed a decline of 9% over the past five years. Furthermore, racial disparities remain a pressing issue, with Asian or Pacific Islander individuals in Pennsylvania being 20% less likely to receive an early diagnosis compared to other groups. Black Americans face a 14% higher likelihood of being diagnosed with lung cancer and are 8% less likely to undergo surgery as an initial treatment compared to their white counterparts.
New to the report this year is the analysis of health insurance coverage mandates for comprehensive biomarker testing, a critical tool in personalizing treatment plans based on tumor analysis. Pennsylvania is noted for requiring insurance coverage for such testing, which is integral to removing financial barriers for patients.
“Lung cancer is a devastating disease and impacts far too many families in Pennsylvania,” stated Elizabeth Hensil, Advocacy Director for Pennsylvania and West Virginia at the American Lung Association. “To address the burden of lung cancer and to help improve the lives of people it impacts, we must continue to evaluate the greatest needs. This report helps us prioritize which areas to focus on to truly make an impact.”
The report outlines several key rankings for Pennsylvania:
- New Cases: Ranked 32nd with 58.2 per 100,000 people, showing a 16% improvement.
- Survival: Ranked 12th with a 30.2% survival rate, marking a 27% improvement.
- Early Diagnosis: Ranked 16th with 28.3% diagnosed at an early stage, an 11% improvement.
- Surgery: Ranked 12th for surgery as a first treatment at 22.2%, but with a 9% decrease.
- Lack of Treatment: Ranked 7th, with only 16.4% of cases receiving no treatment.
- Smoking Rates: Ranked 32nd, with 14.9% of adults currently smoking.
- Radon Testing: Ranked 39th, with 39.1% of test results at or above EPA action levels.
The report’s findings emphasize the need for continued efforts to address lung health disparities, enhance smoking cessation programs, and improve radon testing and mitigation. The American Lung Association calls on other states to follow Pennsylvania’s lead in mandating insurance coverage for biomarker testing and urges Congress to pass the Increasing Access to Lung Cancer Screening Act (H.R. 4286).
As Pennsylvania continues its efforts against lung cancer, this report serves as both a measure of progress and a roadmap for future initiatives, aiming to reduce the disease’s impact and improve health outcomes for all residents.
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