November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month and Banner Health will be hosting lung cancer screening events called “Clearing the Air with Lung Cancer Awareness” at North Colorado Medical Center in Greeley, McKee Medical Center in Loveland and Banner Fort Collins Medical Center on Nov. 1, Nov. 4 and Nov. 7 respectively.
Recent clinical trials have shown that outcomes for lung cancer are improved with screening and more lives can be saved with early detection. According to J David Cowden, MD, a pulmonologist with Banner Health, individuals between age 55 and 77 with a significant smoking history are at greatest risk for lung cancer. “Northern Colorado appears to have a higher than average rate of smoking. Smoking cessation remains our highest priority,” states Dr. Cowden. “We continue to see well over 1000 patients per year with concerning nodules. Within a coordinated lung cancer screening program, early detection can improve mortality by 20 percent.” Banner Health is encouraging lung cancer screenings to improve patient outcomes through early detection and treatment. In less than one minute, the non-invasive, low-dose lung CT-scan can test for abnormalities in patients.
Clearing the Air with Lung Cancer Awareness dates and locations:
• Breakfast with the Docs
o Nov. 1 9-11 a.m. at North Colorado Medical Center, 1801 16th St. Greeley, NCMC Auditorium
Banner Health Contact: Sara Quale
O – 970.810.6133
C – 970.310.3749
Media on-call – 602.747-3080
Sara.Quale@bannerhealth.com
o Nov. 4 9-11 a.m. at McKee Medical Center, 2000 N. Boise Ave. Loveland, Cancer Center Conference Room A & B
• Snacks with the Docs
o Nov. 7 1:30-3:30 p.m. at Banner Fort Collins Medical Center, 4700 Lady Moon Drive Fort Collins, Fossil Creek Room
These events will provide a meet and greet opportunity with community members, breakfast and
screenings completed by the American Lung Association. The event also includes a panel discussion
with Banner Health physicians on the importance of early detection and address questions.
