Guiding you toward better lung health

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, but early detection can make a life-saving difference.  

That’s why nurse navigators are so essential. These compassionate professionals help break down barriers, answer questions and make cancer screenings more accessible. 

“We go to farmers markets, health fairs and community events to spread the word about preventive cancer screenings,” says Sabrina Moffat, a cancer care coordinator at Advocate Health Care. “Lung cancer screening is currently the only way to diagnose lung cancer at an early stage when it’s still typically highly treatable. With screenings, we can catch the cancer at stage one and potentially cure it. For those who are eligible, lung screenings should be as routine as a mammogram.” 

The screening is a simple, low-dose CT scan recommended for adults aged 50 to 80 who have a 20 pack-year smoking history, currently smoke or quit smoking within the past 15 years. 

Despite its potential to save lives, many people who are eligible aren’t aware that lung cancer screenings exist. 

“People know about mammograms and colonoscopies for other types of cancers, but they don’t always know a lung screening is even an option,” says Moffat. “And for those who do qualify, there can sometimes be a sense of shame due to their smoking history. But screening is about taking care of yourself and looking ahead.” 

Even for those who don’t meet the official screening criteria, being open about your smoking history can help ensure better care. “That information allows us to follow patients more closely and make informed decisions about their health moving forward,” Moffat explains. 

Nurse navigators also stay connected with patients year after year, working with primary care teams to monitor an individual’s lung health over time. 

Thanks to the support of nurse navigators, more patients are becoming empowered to take proactive steps toward protecting their lung health. 

Want to learn more about your risk for lung cancer? Take a free online quiz.