Veterans urged to get screened amid Lung Cancer Awareness Month

JACKSON, Tenn. — In honor of Lung Cancer Awareness Month, one organization is urging veterans to be proactive and get screened.

The Lung Cancer Foundation of America found only a small fraction of eligible U.S. Veterans receive annual low-dose CT scans.

Many veterans are at risk for lung cancer due to high exposure to asbestos, burn pits, and other toxic substances.

“We need to activate them to speak up, ask their family doctor about getting their lungs screened and not hesitate. It’s a very simple test. It takes less than a minute to take a picture of the lungs,” said Dr. Drew Moghanaki, Chief of Thoracic Oncology at UCLA Health’s Department of Radiation Oncology.

One lung cancer survivor is grateful that screening caught the disease early.

“I am able to live a very active and full life,” said Donnita Butler. “I am two years post surgery, and I am 70 years old, and I’m climbing mountains and running around amusement parks with my grandchildren.”

Dr. Moghanaki encourages you to talk with your local health care provider about getting screened.

Click here for more information.

For local news, click here.