Declines in smoking contributed to a drop in lung cancer death rates that helped drive down overall cancer death rates in the U.S., according to the latest analysis of trends by the American Cancer Society.
VIEW press / Corbis via Getty Images
Lung Cancer Screenings Can Save Lives — UPMC Surgeon Highlights Who’s at Risk and What to Watch For
-
Asia Tabb
VIEW press / Corbis via Getty Images
Declines in smoking contributed to a drop in lung cancer death rates that helped drive down overall cancer death rates in the U.S., according to the latest analysis of trends by the American Cancer Society.
Aired; August 6, 2025
Listen to the podcast to hear the full conversation.
Lung cancer remains one of the deadliest cancers in the United States, in part because it’s often detected too late. On The Spark, UPMC Thoracic Surgeon Dr. Troy Moritz joined the show to shed light on who should be screened, what symptoms not to ignore, and how technology is changing the way lung cancer is detected and treated.
Who Should Be Screened?
Dr. Moritz emphasized the importance of lung cancer screenings for a specific group:
“We’re looking for people that are age 50 to up to 80 years of age and those people that have smoked what we consider to be 20 pack years,” he explained.
That includes anyone who smoked a pack a day for 20 years — or an equivalent amount — and hasn’t quit within the last 15 years.
These high-risk individuals are encouraged to undergo low-dose CT scans, which Dr. Moritz described as simple and noninvasive.
“It’s pretty much just get in the CAT scan machine and buzz in, buzz out,” he said. “It’s not an MRI, so you don’t have to worry about that claustrophobic feeling.”
The Role of AI and Robotic Tools
Technology has advanced dramatically in recent years. Moritz noted that AI and robotic bronchoscopy are now helping doctors detect and biopsy lesions once thought too small or inaccessible.
“We’re using AI to help predict which nodules may or may not be cancerous,” he said. “We can get to things we used to not go after.”
Additionally, new blood tests that detect specific proteins are emerging as promising early diagnostic tools.
Smoking and Environmental Risks Still Loom
While smoking is the leading risk factor, Dr. Moritz warned that vaping and e-cigarettes may still pose a danger, though data is limited.
“Anything that you inhale into your lungs that’s not air can cause some damage,” he said. “And damage is what alters the DNA that can lead to mutations that can eventually lead to lung cancer.”
In Pennsylvania, radon exposure is another environmental threat.
“We’ve seen some incredibly high radon levels throughout the state,” he noted. “And we know that’s a risk factor for lung cancer as well.”
Silent Symptoms Not to Ignore
Lung cancer is often called a “silent killer” because early stages may show no symptoms.
But there are warning signs.
“If you’re coughing up blood — that’s one you should not ignore,” Moritz stressed.
Other signs include persistent cough, recurrent pneumonia, unexplained chest pain, or shortness of breath that worsens over time.
Even subtle symptoms can be deceptive:
“Sometimes people think their airways are just irritated,” Moritz said. “But if something doesn’t go away with normal treatment, it’s time to get checked out.”
When to See a Doctor
If symptoms persist or worsen — especially if coughing up blood or experiencing shortness of breath — Dr. Moritz advised seeking medical help immediately.
“Blood is an abnormality that probably shouldn’t be overlooked no matter where it’s coming from,” he said.
A delay in evaluation can make a critical difference in outcomes.
Early Detection Equals More Options
For those diagnosed early, treatment options are more effective.
“Surgery offers the best chance for long-term survival,” said Moritz. However, he acknowledged that radiation therapy is a strong alternative, especially for patients who are older or have complicating health issues.
“We have those two really good options for early-stage lung cancer,” he said.
