A new campaign called HOPE (Helping Oklahomans with Prevention and Early Detection: Lung Cancer Screening & Tobacco Cessation Saves Lives) was announced on July 29 in Oklahoma, aiming to increase access to lung cancer screening and tobacco cessation support for at-risk residents. The initiative is funded by a TSET Legacy Grant from the Oklahoma Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust, with collaboration from the American Lung Association, the Oklahoma Hospital Association, and other partners across the state.
Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer deaths in Oklahoma, while tobacco use is identified as the leading cause of preventable death in the state. The HOPE initiative seeks to address these challenges by helping eligible Oklahomans get screened for lung cancer and connect with resources to quit smoking.
Alexis Burris, senior manager of health promotions for the American Lung Association, said, “Lung cancer screening detects lung cancer early and can save lives. If lung cancer is caught at an early stage, the likelihood of surviving five years or more after being diagnosed improves to 65%. Early diagnosis means that people with lung cancer will have more treatment options, fewer side effects and more time with their families.” Burris added that this collaborative effort will help people statewide by increasing access to quality lifesaving screening and support for quitting smoking.
The program targets individuals who meet U.S. Preventive Services Task Force criteria: those aged 50-80 who currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years and have a history of at least 20 pack-years of cigarette smoking. Participating organizations include OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma, Healthcare Quality Improvement Platform (HQuIP), Florida State University, The Coalition Coaches, and Public Health Management Corporation.
The American Lung Association has supported research contributing to advancements in lung disease treatment and prevention; it has also extended its influence nationwide through local offices and community initiatives focused on addressing lung diseases. The organization received a four-star rating from Charity Navigator for fiscal management and transparency; Harold Wimmer serves as president and CEO, according to the official website.
Residents interested in learning about eligibility for screening can contact a Lung Health Navigator at 844-ALA-LUNG or visit Lung.org/screen-OK. Those seeking help quitting tobacco can call 1-800-QUIT-NOW or register online at okhelpline.com.
