Local pulmonologist encourages community members to pay attention to changes in breathing and schedule screenings that can save lives.
November is a month devoted to breathing easier and taking steps to protect lung health. Two national observances—Lung Cancer Awareness Month and COPD Awareness Month—highlight the importance of early detection, screening, and treatment for conditions that affect millions of Americans each year.
Lung Cancer: Catching It Early Saves Lives
Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. Yet there’s growing hope thanks to advances in screening and early detection.
“If lung cancer is found before it spreads, treatment is often more effective and survival rates are significantly higher,” said Dr. Issa pulmonologist and member of the medical staff at Forrest City Medical Center “A simple low-dose CT scan can detect small nodules long before symptoms appear, giving patients the best chance at a cure.”
A low-dose CT scan (LDCT) uses a special X-ray to create detailed pictures of the lungs. The test is painless, takes just a few minutes, and has been shown to reduce lung-cancer mortality in high-risk patients. Individuals age 50 or older who currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years may qualify for the scan.
According to the American Cancer Society, early warning signs may include:
- A cough that doesn’t go away or gets worse
- Coughing up blood or rust-colored phlegm
- Chest pain that worsens with deep breathing or laughing
- Hoarseness or shortness of breath
- Unexplained weight loss or fatigue
“While these symptoms are often caused by other conditions, it’s important for patients to get checked,” Dr. Issa added. “When patients come in at the first sign of change, we can rule out—or catch—problems early.”
COPD: Don’t Ignore a Lingering Cough
More than 16 million Americans have been diagnosed with COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), and millions more may have it without knowing. COPD, which includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis, makes it difficult for air to move in and out of the lungs, leading to shortness of breath, coughing, and fatigue.
“Anyone can develop COPD,” said Dr. Issa, “But we often see it in people over 40, especially those who smoke or have long-term exposure to air pollution, dust, or fumes. The key is recognizing symptoms early—before the disease progresses.”
Early signs can include:
- Shortness of breath during everyday activities
- A chronic cough, sometimes producing mucus
- Wheezing or chest tightness
- Frequent respiratory infections
To diagnose COPD, healthcare providers may recommend spirometry, a simple breathing test that measures how much air a patient can exhale and how fast. Imaging tests such as chest X-rays or CT scans can also help confirm a diagnosis and rule out other conditions, such as lung cancer.
“COPD may develop slowly, but treatment can make a huge difference,” Dr. Issa explained. “We want patients to reach out before breathing becomes a daily struggle. With early care, we can help people breathe easier, stay active, and protect their lung function.”
Take a Deep Breath—and Take Action
If you’ve noticed changes in your breathing, a lingering cough, or other unexplained symptoms, talk to your healthcare provider.
To schedule a lung screening or make an appointment with a pulmonologist, call 870-630-9362 or visit https://forrestcitymedicalcenter.com/pulmonology.
Dr. Issa is a Pulmonologist and Sleep Specialist at Forrest City Medical Center.
Sources:
American Cancer Society, American Lung Association