CHICAGO, IL | March 14, 2023
That’s why the American Lung Association has launched a new program to help Illinois residents, their family members and friends determine if they’re at risk for lung cancer or need screening. Funding for the program is made possible by a grant from the Illinois Department of Public Health.
“More than 9,000 Illinoisians are affected by lung cancer right now. Many of them will succumb to the disease.,” said Felicia Fuller, Dr. PH Health Promotions Director for the Lung Association. “We need to change that. Thousands of lives could be saved if those that qualified got screened.”
The Lung Association wants to improve people’s quality of life through an initiative that aims to increase early intervention and provide support for screenings. All Illinois residents can participate in the program and organizers hope their message will resonate with Black men and women who have lower lung cancer survival rates than white men and women, as well as current or former smokers over the age of 50, who may be at high risk.
“Residents can answer a few questions to understand if they qualify for a lung screening, and if they do, the Lung Association will connect them with a nurse navigator that will provide them with support, guidance, and be with them through their screening journey,” said Fuller. “Additional assistance can include understanding insurance coverage, obtaining resources, and assistance with financial barriers to access care they may need.”
Under the program, Illinois residents can call the Lung HelpLine Nurse Navigator at 844-ALA-LUNG and speak to a Nurse Navigator, Respiratory Therapist or Certified Tobacco Treatment Specialist about their eligibility to get a low-dose CT scan.
Participants will also learn what screening centers are nearby, receive scheduling help and even transportation assistance if needed.
The scans are covered by most health insurance plans, but if needed, the Lung Association can provide vouchers to cover the screening costs.
The program is now underway and runs through the end of June.
If you would like an interview with a Lung Association representative about the lung screening program, please contact Janye Killelea at [email protected] or (312) 940-7624.
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The American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease through education, advocacy and research. The work of the American Lung Association is focused on four strategic imperatives: to defeat lung cancer; to champion clean air for all; to improve the quality of life for those with lung disease and their families; and to create a tobacco-free future. For more information about the American Lung Association, which has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and is a Platinum-Level GuideStar Member, call 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872) or visit: Lung.org. To support the work of the American Lung Association, find a local event at Lung.org/events.
For more information, contact:
James A. Martinez
(312) 445-2501
[email protected]
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