This Awful Diagnosis
Recently diagnosed with Stage IV adenocarcinoma in both lungs. I am optimistic about my treatment plan, which is a clinical trial with Stereotactic Radiation, and now 2 kinds of immunotherapy.
The hardest thing is WHY does the largest percentage of people get diagnosed at Stage IV? Having a low dose CT scan is a simple screening. We get mammograms, colonoscopies, skin cancer screenings, etc. I thought I was on top of all my screenings. Who knew - lung cancer was growing in both of my lungs! The only complaint I had was my energy level was low - and I blamed it on my knee replacement surgery 2 years ago. IF ONLY someone had suggested a CT scan!
I did take a look at Cancer Society guidelines for screening - I don't fit the bill! I haven't smoked in 40 years! No history in my family, etc.
I would like to see the guidelines change so after age 65, it becomes common to get a lung cancer screening. Is this something that the Lung Cancer society is working toward?
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