Medical officials in the Magnolia State are working to help folks put out their cigarettes for good in an effort to promote lung health.
According to the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH), approximately one in 1,700 Mississippians will die of lung cancer. Mississippi’s average lung cancer survival rate is 21.4%, compared to the national average of 26.6%. The leading cause of lung cancer is cigarette smoke and secondhand smoke.
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.
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“If you’re an ex-smoker, or still smoking, early detection of lung cancer is key for your treatment plan,” Amy Winter, director of MSDH’s Office of Tobacco Control, said. “Cancer doesn’t have to be a death sentence. A low-dose CT Scan can help save your life. Discuss your options with a health care provider.”
Individuals over fifty, current smokers, and anyone who has a history of smoking two packs a day are eligible for the low-dose CT Scan.
MSDH’s Office of Tobacco Control is prepared to help anyone who wants to quit smoking. The “Ready. Set. Quit.” program offers online, phone, and text counseling. More information can be found here.
“Quitting smoking is a practice and we are here to support you,” Mississippi Tobacco-Free Coalition of Forrest, Jones, and Perry counties Director Patricia Taylor said. “When you quit you lower your risk of cancer, add years to your, life, and can breathe more easily.”
