LOUISVILLE, KY | November 19, 2024
Today, the American Lung Association released its 2024 “State of Lung Cancer” report, which examines key indicators to highlight how the toll of lung cancer varies by state. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths here in Kentucky and across the U.S.
This year’s report found that lung cancer metrics in Kentucky improved for incidence (12% better), survival (30% better) and early detection (14% better) over the last five years.
The report found that Kentucky ranked:
- 49 out of 49 in the nation for rate of new lung cancer cases at 84.9 per 100,000. The national rate is 53.6 per 100,000.
- 41 out of 47 in the nation for survival at 23.9%. The national rate of people alive five years after a lung cancer diagnosis is 28.4%.
- 35 out of 47 in the nation for early diagnosis at 26.0%. Nationally, only 27.4% of cases are diagnosed at an early stage when the survival rate is much higher.
- 16 out of 51 in the nation for lung cancer screening at 18.1%. Lung cancer screening with annual low-dose CT scans for those at high risk can reduce the lung cancer death rate by up to 20%. Nationally, only 16.0% of those at high risk were screened.
- 27 out of 47 in the nation for surgery at 19.3%. Lung cancer can often be treated with surgery if it is diagnosed at an early stage and has not spread. Nationally, 20.7% of cases underwent surgery.
- 19 out of 47 in the nation for lack of treatment at 19.2%. Nationally, 20.9% of cases receive no treatment.
“Lung cancer is a devastating disease and impacts far too many families in Kentucky. To address the burden of lung cancer and to help improve the lives of people it impacts, we must continue to evaluate the greatest needs. This report helps us prioritize which areas to focus on to truly make an impact,” said Shannon Baker, Advocacy Director for the American Lung Association. “This year’s ‘State of Lung Cancer’ report shows that Kentucky must continue to focus on screening those at high risk. Together, we can make a difference.”
Overall, the “State of Lung Cancer” report reveals positive news. Nationally, the lung cancer survival rate has improved 26% in the last five years due to increased awareness and advancements in detection and treatment.
The organization’s seventh annual “State of Lung Cancer” report highlights how the toll of lung cancer varies by state and examines key indicators throughout the U.S., including new cases, survival, early diagnosis, surgical treatment, lack of treatment, screening rates and insurance coverage of comprehensive biomarker testing.
New this year, “State of Lung Cancer” examines health insurance coverage requirements of comprehensive biomarker testing across the U.S. Lung cancer biomarker testing sometimes referred to as tumor, molecular, genomic or genetic testing, looks for changes in the tumor's DNA. The results of the test may show biomarkers that can help determine what treatment options would be best for an individual patient. Insurance coverage of biomarker testing is important for removing a cost barrier to people with lung cancer, but coverage for biomarker testing is only required in some states. The report found that Kentucky does require insurance coverage of comprehensive biomarker testing.
The 2024 “State of Lung Cancer” report highlights opportunities for states and the federal government to reduce the burden of lung cancer and encourages everyone to help end lung cancer. This year, the American Lung Association calls on other states to join our state in implementing policies to require insurance coverage of comprehensive biomarker testing. The Lung Association also calls on Congress to pass the Increasing Access to Lung Cancer Screening Act (H.R. 4286).
Get involved and help the mission of the American Lung Association. The Fight For Air Climb in Louisville is coming up on March 23, 2025 at Lynn Family Stadium. Learn more at ClimbLouisville.org.
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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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