Lung cancer does not wait, early diagnosis and continuity of care are a priority

What consequences does the health crisis have for everything related to lung cancer?

After the first wave in March, all pulmonary oncologists have noticed an increase in diagnostic delays, some patients have had difficulty meeting their GPs or have given up on the emergency room. Unfortunately, these delays can be dramatic, particularly in the case of serious conditions such as lung cancer. A patient’s survival prognosis is better if a tumor is identified in a localized stage – which can be operated on or treated – compared to cancer in a metastatic stage (spread to other organs).

Why is continuity of care essential?

There is a risk of losing the chance when a patient stops treatment, no longer attends appointments, or does not report any unusual symptoms they may be experiencing. Counseling (visual or by teleconsultation) is essential, both for patients under treatment and for people who need to be diagnosed and in whom there is unfortunately the risk of discovering cancer.

What about the treatment options?

We have been fortunate to experience a revolution over the past decade, with the arrival of promising therapeutic options. This is the case of immunotherapy applied to lung cancer: it uses an antibody that aims to restore and strengthen the immune system so that it can fight cancer. This is also the case with targeted therapies, which target a molecular defect (linked to cancer) and stop the tumor from growing or spreading.

How can you encourage interested people not to give up visiting you?

Cancer services are ready. We have reorganized ourselves to welcome our patients in conditions of maximum safety. Circulation circuits inside the premises were revised and some protocols were rewritten, in particular for the disinfection of equipment. We also count on a patient association such as “My Lung Cancer Network”, which brings comfort and information to patients and families. In fact, it is important for patients to have spaces to speak outside the healthcare sector.

What are the suggestive symptoms of lung cancer that should prompt you to consult without delay?

– A very severe cough

Chest pain that is exacerbated by coughing, breathing or laughter

– A dull or sharp pain in the shoulders, back or chest

– Weight loss, loss of appetite

– Sputum or phlegm containing blood

– Unusual and persistent fatigue

– Wheezing

– Abnormal shortness of breath

– It is also possible that lung cancer does not cause any symptoms in the very early stage of the disease.

On the occasion of lung cancer awareness month, AstraZeneca launches, in collaboration with the association My lung cancer network, a prevention campaign aimed at patients. The target. the goal? Remember that consultations, treatments and cures must not be postponed or even canceled under any circumstances.

Find the campaign on the Living With Lung Cancer Facebook page.

Sources:

• 1 Professor Axel Kahn, president of the League Against Cancer
• 2 GROUVID pilot study conducted at the Gustave Roussy National Cancer Center (Val-de-Marne)