LUNGevity Foundation applauds Representatives Brian Higgins (D-NY-26), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-1), and Kathy Castor (D-FL-14) for introducing the Increasing Access to Lung Cancer Screening Act (H.R. 4286). This bipartisan bill includes important measures that would increase access to lung cancer screening as well as tobacco cessation services. The bill would also authorize an education and awareness campaign for lung cancer screening.

“We know that early detection of lung cancer saves lives, but currently only about 6% of those eligible are receiving screening services,” said Andrea Ferris, President and CEO of LUNGevity Foundation. “This legislation would remove barriers to lung cancer screening and help to reduce inequities in access to care. We are grateful to Representatives Higgins, Fitzpatrick, and Castor for their leadership on this important bill.”

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the United States. According to the American Cancer Society, nearly 240,000 Americans will be diagnosed with lung cancer in 2023, while more than 127,000 will die of the disease. For many lung cancer patients, early detection can mean better treatment options and a better prognosis. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends lung cancer screening using low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) for individuals aged 50-80 with a 20 pack-year smoking history and who currently smoke or quit smoking in the last 15 years.

LUNGevity is committed to increasing awareness of and access to lung cancer screening through educational campaigns, screening programs, and policy interventions. We look forward to working with our advocates and partner organizations to support this legislation.