Early detection to save lives
Lung cancer is most commonly detected by doctors through an imaging test. Since lung cancer doesn't always cause symptoms in beginning stages or at all, it is important to find it early. Through these screens and biomarker testing, doctors are more accurately able to understand the severity of a case and determine the best action plan.
Lung Cancer Screening Options
Low-Dose CT Scan
The most common lung screening option.
This is an X-ray that takes multiple images of the chest area. All images get combined by a computer into a detailed image of the lungs.
For more information about this scan and details regarding insurance coverage, head to the American Lung Association.
Clinical Trails through Starling Physicians
Multiple clinical trials to improve early detection.
These four clinical trial options are available to Starling patients and all consist of a simple blood draw. The goal is to overcome the financial challenges of current screening methods and make screening options more accessible so people can live longer, cancer-free lives.
To learn more about these clinical trails, head to Starling Physicians.
Cardiac Calcium Scoring
Not a typical lung cancer screening option. This is actually a heart scan, BUT this is how Angela Marotta Inho was diagnosed.
Usually, this test is given to people with heart disease or those suspected of having heart disease. It is a non-invasive CT scan of the heart that calculates the risk of developing coronary heart disease by measuring the amount of plaque build up that exists in the arteries.
Again, this scan is not a typical lung cancer screening option, but was the test that gave Angela her diagnosis and an additional 3 years with her family.
For more information about this scan head to Midstate Radiology.
We encourage you to talk to your doctor about your screening options if you think/know you are at risk for lung cancer. For more information about lung cancer, please visit the American Lung Association or the Lung Cancer Foundation of America.
What is lung cancer?
Lung cancer, just like any other cancer, occurs when cells change or mutate. Usually, lung cancer is caused by being exposed to dangerous chemicals that are inhaled into our bodies, but it can also occur in people who have had no exposure to toxins. The cancer cells grow and cluster together forming a tumor which attacks and destroys lung tissue. Normally, those dealing with lung cancer do not have symptoms until cancer cells have spread to other parts of the body, making lung cancer difficult to treat.
Why the Angela Marotta Inho Foundation
As a small non-profit organization and a family that has personally been affected by lung cancer, it is our goal to advance research and care for all those impacted by this disease.
We are supporting lung cancer research by donating all proceeds directly to lung oncologist Mark Awad's research fund.
We are working to reduce the stigma associated with lung cancer by raising awareness that anyone can be affected- smokers & nonsmokers.
We are building a strong community for lung cancer patients and their families.
Our Story
Angela Marotta Inho was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer in December of 2017. As a non-smoker and focused on her health and wellness, this news came as a shock to her and her family. During her 3-year battle, she consistently showed strength, courage, a positive attitude and was an inspiration to everyone she came across. We will strive to honor her legacy of raising awareness and reducing the stigma surrounding lung cancer.
Sources
1. "Lung Cancer Screening." American Lung Association, 17 Nov. 2022, www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/lung-cancer/basics/what-causes-lung-cancer. 2. "Clinical Research." Starling Physicians, www.starlingphysicians.com/research/. 3. "Cardiac Computed Tomography (CT) for Calcium Scoring." Midstate Radiology Associates, www.midstateradiology.com/radiology-services/oncologic-body-imaging/ct-calcium-scoring/.