November: Lung Cancer Awareness Month - Insights and Innovations from Corewell Health

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Medical oncologist Mohammad Muhsin Chisti, M.D., and thoracic surgeon Thomas Watson, M.D., both of Corewell Health. (Photos: Corewell Health)

November marks Lung Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Corewell Health is committed to advancing the understanding, prevention and treatment of lung cancer through innovative approaches and community education. This article explores breakthrough treatments, the invisible threat of radon exposure and the critical importance of early detection.

Breakthrough Treatment: Immunotherapies, Targeted Therapies and Precision Medicine

Lung cancer treatment has evolved significantly, with targeted therapies and precision medicine leading to improved patient outcomes. Corewell Health is leading the way in these advancements, delivering treatments tailored to the unique genetic makeup of each patient's cancer. 

• Immunotherapy has revolutionized lung cancer care by harnessing the body's own immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells. Unlike traditional treatments like chemotherapy, which attack both healthy and cancerous cells, immunotherapy offers a more targeted approach with fewer side effects. Immune checkpoint inhibitors,  a powerful class of immunotherapy drugs that help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells more effectively, have significantly improved survival rates in lung cancers and are now a cornerstone of lung cancer treatment. They can be used alone or in combination with other therapies to enhance outcomes. 
• Targeted Therapies focus on specific genetic mutations or proteins that drive cancer growth. By targeting these abnormalities, therapies can effectively inhibit cancer progression while minimizing damage to healthy cells. Results are promising and patients are living for many years. 
• Precision Medicine involves analyzing a patient's genetic profile to identify the most effective treatment options. Precision medicine allows for personalized treatment plans that optimize efficacy and reduce side effects, offering hope for improved survival rates and quality of life. Advances in genomic sequencing, biomarker testing and liquid biopsies now allow doctors to match patients with the most effective therapies, marking a shift from one-size-fits-all care to personalized oncology.

"We’re now able to match patients with therapies that are uniquely suited to their cancer’s genetic fingerprint," said Mohammad Muhsin Chisti, M.D., medical oncologist at Corewell Health. "This level of precision is transforming outcomes and giving patients more targeted, less toxic options," he said.

"We have developed methods to predict which lung cancer patients will respond to immunotherapies. Using AI and high-resolution imaging, we can now identify molecular fingerprints in lung biopsies that correlate with treatment success." 

Radon: The Invisible Threat

Radon is a naturally occurring, odorless and radioactive gas released from soil and rocks that can seep into homes through cracks in floors and foundations — especially in poorly ventilated areas. It is the second leading cause of lung cancer, after smoking, yet many people are unaware of its presence and potential danger. Radon-related lung cancer accounts for an estimated 21,000 deaths annually, including around 2,900 in non-smokers.

• Raising Awareness: Corewell Health emphasizes the importance of radon awareness and testing, particularly in homes and buildings where radon levels may be elevated. Radon is odorless and invisible, making it essential for individuals to conduct radon tests to ensure safe indoor air quality.
• Mitigation Efforts: If high radon levels are detected, mitigation measures can be implemented to reduce exposure. These may include improving ventilation, sealing cracks in floors and walls, and installing radon reduction systems.

"Radon exposure is a silent risk that often goes unnoticed," Dr. Chisti added. "The risk is significantly higher for smokers due to the synergistic effects of radon and tobacco smoke. Testing and mitigation are simple steps that can make a profound difference in preventing lung cancer."

Early Detection Saves Lives

Early detection of lung cancer significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and survival. 

• Low-Dose CT Scans are a powerful tool for detecting lung cancer early, particularly in high-risk individuals such as smokers or those with a family history of lung cancer. Low-dose CT scans can identify small nodules or abnormalities that may indicate cancer, allowing for prompt intervention.
• Screening Guidelines include annual low-dose CT scans for individuals aged 50 to 80 with a significant smoking history. Early detection through screening can lead to more effective treatment options and improved survival rates.

"Low-dose CT screening has revolutionized how we detect lung cancer," said Thomas Watson, M.D., a thoracic surgeon at Corewell Health. "We’re catching cancers earlier, when they’re more treatable—and that’s saving lives."

This progress in early detection is critical, but it’s only part of the care equation.

"We also recognize the emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis," Dr. Watson continued. "Our teams are trained to support patients not just physically, but emotionally — addressing mental health alongside medical care."

Corewell Health's Commitment

Corewell Health is dedicated to advancing lung cancer care through research, education and community outreach. Their efforts include:

• Patient Education: Providing resources and information to help individuals understand lung cancer risks, prevention strategies and treatment options.
• Innovative Research: Supporting research initiatives that explore new treatment modalities and improve existing therapies.
• Community Engagement: Collaborating with local organizations to raise awareness about lung cancer and promote healthy lifestyle choices.

Conclusion

Lung Cancer Awareness Month is an opportunity to highlight the importance of prevention, early detection and innovative treatment options. Corewell Health is committed to empowering individuals with the knowledge and resources needed to reduce lung cancer risk and improve outcomes for those affected by the disease. For more information on lung cancer awareness and screening options, consider reaching out to Corewell Health for expert guidance and support or visit Lung Cancer | Corewell Health.