Early Detection
How important do you think early detection is in lung cancer treatment? How has your diagnosis fared in how your doctor has responded to your treatment?
Do share...
I think I shared this in the past, but my former PCP in 2017-2018 basically old me my fatigue shortness of breath various aches and pains were all in my head. He would run basic blood tests prescribed anti anxiety meds until I finally got fed up went to the E.R. they did a chest x-ray said I was fine but my symptoms persisted and got worse until one day I could barely walk after grocery shopping I had to sit down and wait an hour or two to get enough strength to put the groceries away. I called the former PCP told them I am coming to get my records, I found a new PCP and she listened to my full story and immediately ordered a chest CT and that found my lung cancer thankfully early stage small cell. After chemo and radiation I remain stable to this day. I say my new PCP literally saved my life. SO yes early diagnosis is critical.
It always blows me away when I hear that doctor's delivery of symptoms being all in one's head. Some of the doctors do a disservice when they dismiss early stages. I'm so happy you found a new PCP. I think many of us make the necessary shifts when the service and care do not match up to new needs. Yes, early detection is as critical as being a vocal patient advocate for your health.
Wishing you the very best!
Yolanda (Team Member)
I think early detection is really important. I simply went for a cardiac CT scan when I turned 65 and when it came back my doctor said I had a healthy heart. I was happy with that but a week later I was reading the scan and noticed on the bottom of the report that I had a suspicious nodule on my lung. I called my doctor, and he said thanks for noticing that and then ordered a Ct scan of my lung. After that he did a PETCT scan. That showed lung cancer. I went and 2 consultations and found a wonderful doctor. I went and had a biopsy and yes it was cancer. It was found very early, so I had my surgery to remove my right middle lobe in 12/23. After the surgery he told me we got it and it had not spread anywhere. No extra treatments were needed. I go for Ct scan every 6 months for the next 3 yrs. I just had my first scan, and all is good. So having the cardic ct scan was a lifesaver for me because we found it early.
Thank you for sharing your story as well! Sorry to hear of the loss of your friend; Unfortunately, lung cancer is one of those situations the earlier they can detect anything the better. I totally agree with you in hoping a CT examination could be part of a routine once a year, like so many other tests. Please let us know how you're doing and wishing you the very best!
Yolanda (Team Member)Thank you so much. Will do.
Early detection is everything.My husband's GI ordered a CT; well it picked up a spot on his lung. The GI notified my husband's lung doctor and we were called to come in. It did turn out to be malignant and he had radiation, which took care of it. Six months later a follow up scan showed it had come back; more radiation and now a year later a PET scan showed him to be cancer free. It never got past stage 1. So yes early detection is very important.
thanks for sharing this with us. I am so glad to hear his scan is clear. Jill (Team Member) So happy to hear your husband is cancer-free. Awesome!
Best!
Yolanda (Team Member)
Amazing that the patient saw it but not the doctor. That is one reason I look at my reports/scans when the facility makes them viewable by me in the portal. glad you got it early.
that is great that you look at all your reports and scans. Important reminder for everyone. Jill (Team Member)
