The University of Mississippi Medical Center’s Cancer Center and Research Institute will be honoring National Lung Cancer Screening Day by offering free screenings in Jackson.
Registration is now open for those interested in being tested for a medical condition that is not uncommon in the Magnolia State. According to the American Lung Association, Mississippi’s average lung cancer survival rate is 21.4%, compared to the national average of 26.6%.
Mississippi ranks third to last in the nation for lung cancer survival. Medical experts contend that working to increase lung cancer screenings and early diagnosis is key to addressing the burden of the ailment in the state.
As part of a national campaign to remedy this staggering issue, cost-free screenings will take place on Saturday, November 9 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Cancer Center and Research Institute located in the Jackson Medical Mall.
The screening is recommended for people who:
- Are between the ages of 50 and 80
- Smoke currently or have quit within the past 15 years
- Have at least a 20-pack-year smoking history (defined as packs of cigarettes smoked per day multiplied by the number of years smoked).
Appointments are required for this screening event. To determine eligibility and schedule an appointment, those interested can call (601)984-5864 and select option 1.
