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World Lung Cancer Day 2021

August 1st is World Lung Cancer Day, a day marked to support those fighting the disease, remember those who have passed, and spread awareness about prevention. First observed in 2012, World Lung Cancer Day is championed by the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC) and the American College of Chest Physicians (CHEST).

The Facts

Starting in the lungs, lung cancer can spread to other organs in the body due to the impact of DNA mutations on previously health cells. The CDC states there are two main types of lung cancer, small cell and non-small cell, with non-small cell being more common with a slower growth rate than small cell. Tests identifying lung cancer include MRI scans, CT scans, PET scans, blood tests, and chest X-rays.

Lung cancer infographic

Prevention

The American Cancer Society asserts that smoking tobacco and secondhand exposure to tobacco smoke is the leading cause of lung cancer, followed by the exposure to radon, air pollution, and various lung diseases. Given that lifestyle choices heavily impact the development of lung cancer, it is imperative to bring awareness to prevention methods. Avoiding tobacco is the most effective tactic to prevent harmful carcinogens from entering the lungs. Avoiding exposure to radon and cancer-causing agents such as arsenic, diesel exhaust, and uranium can also lessen the chances of developing lung cancer.

How CMT Can Help

Because cancer is itself a genetic disease, analyzing a patient’s genetic makeup as a first step can greatly improve cancer prevention. According to the NIH, inherited genetic mutations play a role in 5-10% of all cancers, making testing for hereditary cancer syndromes increasingly valuable. CMT Solutions performs services to help patients get access to genetic testing, including mutation and EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor) testing. Here at CMT, we recognize that behind every prior authorization for a genetic test we perform is a real patient, facing real challenges. Likewise, behind every case we submit there is a real person completing that submission, and together our employees work towards creating a world without cancer.


About CMT

CMT offers combined expertise in laboratory, technology solutions, and HUB services to help both patients and physicians. It is the market leader in molecular diagnostic patient access, offering prior authorizations, benefits investigation, notifications, genetic counseling, and more.

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