November is nationally recognized as Lung Cancer Awareness Month and Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month. Navicent Health seeks to raise awareness about both of these devastating cancers, their causes and treatment options available at Peyton Anderson Cancer Center, Navicent Health (PACC) during the month of November.  

Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers among both men and women in the U.S. The American Cancer Society estimates that approximately 229,000 new cases of lung cancer will be diagnosed in 2020, and an estimated 136,000 people will die of the disease this year.

Although less common than lung cancer, the American Cancer Society estimates 58,000 Americans will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer this year, and approximately 47,000 people with pancreatic cancer will die of the disease this year.

“Pancreatic cancer has received more attention this year as well-known figures like Alex Trebek and John Lewis have announced diagnoses. People rarely show symptoms of pancreatic cancer until it is in its later stages, so it is important to understand and control risk factors when possible,” said Aime Clance, RN, patient advocate at Peyton Anderson Cancer Center, Navicent Health. 

Although some risk factors for both cancers – like age and family history – cannot be controlled, others can. Tobacco use, a leading contributor to both lung and pancreatic cancer, remains the single largest preventable cause of disease and premature death in the U.S. Peyton Anderson Cancer Center, Navicent Health offers a free four-week smoking cessation class each month. Call 478-633-3000 to learn more and register for the class.

Peyton Anderson Cancer Center will also host a virtual Lung & Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Vigil on Thursday, November 19 at 7:00 p.m. Join others in the community to honor lung and pancreatic cancer survivors and remember those who have been lost to these two diseases. Visit “Peyton Anderson Cancer Center” on Facebook to join the vigil. 

Although those with pancreatic cancer rarely show symptoms until later stages, those symptoms can include jaundice, belly or back pain, unexplained weight loss, nausea and vomiting. Those experiencing their symptoms should see their doctor. To find a doctor in central Georgia, visit www.navicenthealth.org and choose “Find A Doctor.”

Symptoms of lung cancer can include a persistent cough, chest pain, hoarseness, unexplained weight loss, coughing up blood and feeling tired or weak without explanation. Those experiencing these symptoms should also contact their doctor. Smokers interested in a low dose CT lung screening to determine their risk may contact Peyton Anderson Cancer Center at 478-633-3000 to learn more.