Lung Cancer Test Can Cut Deaths
07/09/99
Screening smokers for lung cancer can dramatically reduce the number of deaths from this catastrophic disease, according to new research that contradicts current medical practice.
CAT scans now can use a new technique that is far more sensitive than conventional chest X-rays, and can detect tumors when they are small enough to be cured. As a result, the five-year survival rate can go as high as 80%. In addition to saving lives, widespread screening could eventually save $1.5 billion a year in medical costs by eliminating costly cancer treatments, according to the researchers from the Cornell University Medical Center in New York City, whose study is reported in tomorrow's Lancet, an international medical journal.
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