Dr. Aaron Trachte Urges Early Lung Cancer Screening to Save Lives

“The survival is totally dependent on when we find the cancer,” Dr. Aaron Trachte said.

Early screening saves lives, and November marks Lung Cancer Awareness Month, KSWO reported.

Key Clinical Takeaways:
• Lung cancer stands as the second most common cancer in the United States across both men and women, with nearly 125,000 deaths estimated for the year by the American Cancer Society.
• Cardiothoracic and vascular surgeon Dr. Aaron Trachte at Memorial Health emphasizes that low-dose CAT scans effectively identify small, early-stage masses.
• Southwest Oklahoma residents have regional access to screening and treatment through collaborative centers located in Lawton, Duncan, and Altus.

Lung cancer claims nearly 125,000 lives in the United States this year alone, according to estimates from the American Cancer Society cited by KSWO. The disease ranks as the second most common cancer for both men and women.

Trachte explains that waiting for symptoms to appear reduces treatment efficacy. “So, if you can find a cancer that’s small at an early stage, then the chances of getting a cure are much better than if you find it late,” he said to KSWO.

“Specifically for lung cancer, if you wait until you start to have symptoms, we’ve already kind of missed our opportunity to help you the most.”

High-risk groups require targeted screening. Trachte notes that older age, a history of smoking, and family histories of cancer elevate individual risk because cancers tend to run in families.

Low-dose CAT scans serve as the primary diagnostic tool for early detection. Trachte describes the procedure to KSWO as a specific, lower-dose radiation scan designed to locate small masses.

Symptoms often do not appear until later stages. Trachte outlines warning signs that warrant medical evaluation, including a new cough that fails to resolve, recurrent pneumonias unresponsive to antibiotics, and unintended weight loss.

Patients who notice these signs or experience uncertainty can consult a primary care provider for guidance. Memorial Health and the Cancer Centers of Southwest Oklahoma provide regional diagnostic and treatment services.

Rural populations benefit from local cancer care networks that minimize travel burdens. Trachte points out that cancer treatment frequently requires repeat visits.

Memorial Health and the Cancer Centers of Southwest Oklahoma operate a collaborative group spanning Lawton, Duncan, and Altus. Patients who believe they meet the screening criteria can contact any of these three centers to determine their eligibility.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational and scientific communication purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition, diagnosis, or treatment plan.