Apollo Cancer Centres (ACCs) launched India’s first LungLife Screening Programme, an initiative aimed at the early detection of lung cancer on Nov 28. This programme is designed to combat a disease that accounts for 5.9% of all cancers and 8.1% of cancer-related deaths in the country, with the ultimate goal of improving treatment outcomes and survival rates.
The screening programme is affordable and includes several key features, such as patient registration and documentation, consultations with pulmonologists, Pulmonary Function Tests (PFT) and low-dose CT scans to detect lung cancer at an early stage.
Dr Rahul Jalan, Consultant Interventional Pulmonology at Apollo Hospitals in Ahmedabad, explained the significance of this programme. He said, “Lung cancer remains one of the deadliest cancers globally, but early detection notably enhances survival chances. Through this programme, we aim to identify high-risk individuals early, using advanced low-dose CT technology, which minimises radiation exposure while maximising diagnostic precision. This programme is particularly impactful for individuals with a history of smoking, passive smoking exposure, air pollution, or a family history of lung cancer. By detecting lung cancer at a treatable stage, we empower patients with better treatment outcomes and build a renewed hope for a healthier future.”
Dr Jalan also elaborated on the low-dose CT scan process, which takes approximately 30 minutes. The radiation exposure, at 1.2 mSv, is significantly lower compared to a standard CT scan.
According to GLOBOCAN 2020 estimates from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer deaths globally, accounting for an estimated 1.8 million deaths (18%) in 2020.
Dr Akash Shah, Consultant Medical Oncology at ACC Ahmedabad, highlighted the importance of early screening, “With this comprehensive screening programme, we focus on early-stage detection, where the chances of effective treatment and recovery are exponentially higher. The programme leverages state-of-the-art low-dose CT scans, ensuring accurate diagnoses while prioritising patient safety. Together, we are not just treating cancer but transforming lives through timely interventions and holistic care tailored to individual needs.”
Dr Shah emphasised the necessity of regular screenings, noting that in India, 1 to 1.5 lakh people are diagnosed with lung cancer annually, with 65-75% of cases detected in the third or fourth stage. He added, “This late detection occurs because lung cancer often lacks pain receptors, and symptoms are typically absent in the first two stages. Apollo’s initiative aims to reduce this ratio by identifying cancer earlier, ultimately benefiting two-thirds of patients.”
The LungLife Screening Programme focuses on high-risk groups, including:
- Individuals aged 50 to 80 years.
- Those who are asymptomatic (showing no signs or symptoms of lung cancer).
- Individuals with a significant history of smoking.
- People with a family history of lung cancer.
Early screening through low-dose CT scans can dramatically improve survival rates. However, research indicates that approximately 80% of high-risk individuals have never discussed screening with their healthcare providers. Increasing communication and awareness around lung cancer screening is crucial for timely diagnosis and effective treatment.
Dr Rushit Shah, Consultant Medical Oncology at ACC Ahmedabad, described lung cancer as a “silent threat,” often detected at advanced stages. He said, “Early detection is a critical intervention. Our initiative demonstrates that proactive healthcare can save lives, offering patients the best chance for recovery and reinforcing our commitment to redefining excellence in cancer treatment.”
“We are proud to be the first in India to launch the LungLife Screening Programme, a groundbreaking initiative that reflects Apollo Cancer Centres’ leadership in oncology care. This programme is affordable and can be accessed by underprivileged communities as well” Neeraj Lal, COO & Unit Head of Apollo Hospitals, Gujarat Region, stated.
The initiative not only focuses on early diagnosis but also addresses the possibility of lung cancer metastasising to the brain and spine. Symptoms such as persistent cough, haemoptysis (coughing up blood) and sudden, excessive weight loss should not be ignored.
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