February marks Black History Month, a period to recognize the achievements and contributions of Black Americans while highlighting health disparities affecting the community. In Illinois, Black residents experience the highest lung cancer rates among racial and ethnic groups. To address this issue, the American Lung Association is offering free lung cancer screenings to Illinois residents.
"Lung cancer is the #1 cause of cancer deaths for both men and women in this country, accounting for more than 20% of cancer deaths, with the death rate being significantly higher among Black men," said Mikayla Pittman, Manager of Nationwide Health Promotions for the Lung Association. "Getting screened and knowing your risk can save thousands of lives by improving treatment outcomes."
Illinois ranks among the top ten states with new lung cancer cases for Black men and women, with rates of 78.7 cases per 100,000 people for Black men and 56.1 for Black women. Early diagnosis remains less common among Black individuals compared to white counterparts, impacting survival rates.
The screening program runs through June. Residents at risk are encouraged to participate by contacting a Lung Health Navigator at 844-ALA-LUNG to check eligibility. The Lung Association provides information on local screening centers and helps obtain necessary referrals from doctors.
Navigators assist with financial barriers by covering remaining balances for screenings and arranging transportation if needed. Most insurance plans cover scans; however, uninsured participants will have their costs covered by the Lung Association.
Further details are available at Lung.org/lcs-assistance. For inquiries about the program, contact Janye Killelea at [email protected] or call (312) 940-7624.
