Statistics show that one in 13 Albertans will develop lung cancer in their lifetime, and over 1,500 lives are lost each year due to this disease.
Every year, the devastating impact of lung cancer is felt by thousands of Albertans. These aren’t just numbers; they represent our loved ones, our families, and our friends. At the Alberta Cancer Foundation, we are committed to creating more moments for these individuals by investing in the advancement of lung cancer screening and detection programs.
Programs such as, the Alberta Lung Cancer Screening Program (ALCSP), a groundbreaking two-year pilot project initiated by Alberta Health Services (AHS). Through this program, approximately 3,000 eligible Albertans will have access to low-dose computed tomography (CT) scans for lung cancer screening.
Lung cancer screening is for individuals who are at a high risk for lung cancer. Albertans may be eligible for screening if they are between the ages of 50 and 74, smoke cigarettes, or quit after smoking for many years, and are a patient within one of these Primary Care Networks (PCNs):
- Highland PCN (Calgary)
- Mosaic PCN (Calgary)
- Calgary West Central PCN
- Edmonton O-day’min PCN
- Edmonton Southside PCN
- Grande Prairie PCN
These locations were chosen for the pilot based on high smoking rates and population demographics. Eligible patients can be referred to the program by a primary care provider from one of the participating PCNs.
The impact of regular lung cancer screening cannot be overstated. Statistics show that one in 13 Albertans will develop lung cancer in their lifetime, and over 1,500 lives are lost each year due to this disease. However, with regular screenings, the risk of dying from lung cancer can be reduced by nearly 25% for high-risk individuals without symptoms.
By utilizing low-dose CT scans, we can detect lung cancer before symptoms arise, leading to more successful treatment outcomes. Without screening, most cases are diagnosed at later stages when the cancer has already spread, making treatment less effective. Early detection is key to saving lives and improving survival rates.
In addition to the screening program, the project is also prioritizing comprehensive care for individuals referred to the ALCSP. All current smokers who are part of the program will be connected with a tobacco cessation case manager. This dedicated professional will conduct a needs assessment to guide them through available provincial resources and provide support, including financial assistance for pharmacotherapy if needed.
We invite you to visit screeningforlife.ca/lung for more detailed information about the program. If you have any questions or require further assistance, please feel free to call 1-866-727-3926 or send an email to alcsp@ahs.ca.
This remarkable pilot project is made possible through the generous funding of Alberta Health Services (AHS) and the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer (CPAC). Together, we are leading the charge in implementing cutting-edge lung cancer screening initiatives and making a tangible difference in the lives of Albertans.
Learn more about our ongoing commitment to lung cancer screening and consider making a donation today to the Alberta Cancer Foundation. Together, we can create more moments for Albertans facing cancer.
