New Public Health Program Seeks to Save Lives by Boosting Lung Cancer Screenings in Acadiana

Acadia St. Landry Hospital is proud to announce its partnership with the American Lung Association in an initiative aimed at increasing lung cancer screening rates among residents in Acadiana. The Louisiana Lung Cancer Screening Initiative represents a collaborative effort to integrate public health equity best practices, build awareness, and reduce barriers to care. The goal is to save more lives through early detection. When lung cancer is diagnosed early before it has a chance to spread, the likelihood of surviving five years or more improves to 63 percent.

Lung cancer continues to be the leading cause of cancer deaths. It remains a significant public health challenge, particularly in communities like Acadiana. Despite advancements in screening and treatment, many individuals still face obstacles in accessing these lifesaving services. Through this partnership, Acadia St. Landry and the Lung Association are committed to addressing these disparities head-on.

"At Acadia St. Landry, we are dedicated to ‘Small Town, Big Care’ and the health and well-being of our community," said Melanie Roge, Director of Growth and Strategy at Acadia St. Landry Hospital. "By collaborating with the American Lung Association, we aim to raise awareness about the importance of lung cancer screening and ensure that all residents have access to these critical services and early interventions."

The Louisiana Lung Cancer Screening Initiative will focus on several key objectives, including:

1. Building Awareness: Educating residents in Acadiana about the benefits of lung cancer screening and the importance of early detection.
2. Reducing Barriers to Care: Addressing logistical, financial, and cultural barriers that may prevent individuals from seeking screening services.
3. Increasing Early-Stage Cancer Diagnosis: Encouraging individuals at high risk for lung cancer to undergo screening, leading to earlier detection and improved treatment outcomes.
4. Decreasing Morbidity and Mortality Rates: By detecting lung cancer at earlier stages, the initiative aims to reduce the disease burden and improve survival rates among affected individuals.

Through targeted outreach, community engagement, and strategic partnerships with healthcare providers, Acadia St. Landry Hospital and the Lung Association are optimistic about the initiative's impact on Acadiana residents' health.

"Too few people in Acadiana are getting screened for lung cancer and getting diagnosed early. With the Louisiana Lung Cancer Screening Initiative, we hope to empower the community to understand their risk for lung cancer and eligibility for a lifesaving low-dose CT scan,” said Deborah P. Brown, Chief Mission Officer, American Lung Association at the Lung Association. “We are excited to collaborate with Acadia St. Landry on this important initiative. Together, we can make meaningful strides in increasing lung cancer screening rates and saving lives in Louisiana."

For more information about the Louisiana Lung Cancer Screening Initiative or to learn how you can get involved, please visit www.aslh.org or Call toll-free: 844-ALA-LUNG (844-252-5864) 9am - 7pm CST; Monday - Friday TTY for hearing impaired – 1-800-501-1068

About Acadia St. Landry
Acadia St. Landry Hospital, located in Church Point, Louisiana, has been a leading provider of healthcare services in Acadiana for over 55 years. Our hospital proudly embodies the spirit of "Small Town, Big Care," offering a comprehensive range of healthcare services to meet the needs of our patients. From wellness programs to preventive care initiatives and outpatient services, Acadia St. Landry Hospital is committed to prioritizing proactive health measures to ensure the well-being of our community. For more information about our services and commitment to wellness, visit aslh.org.