By Rick Sherlock, Lung Cancer Alliance Board Member and retired Major General of the United States Army
On this Veteran’s Day, we honor and salute the dedicated service of the brave men and women that protect our freedoms. In all they do for our country, it is our responsibility to protect them in the ways we know how. Due to higher smoking rates and exposure to environmental and chemical pollutants, military men and women, as well as veterans, have a higher incidence rate of lung cancer than the civilian population. Luckily, early detection is now possible with the use of low-dose CT scans. This is the only current, proven method that can detect lung cancer earlier, before symptoms occur, when it is more treatable and potentially curable.
As a retired solider, it wasn’t until I joined the Board of Lung Cancer Alliance that I became aware of our elevated risk for the disease. But today there is something you can do about it and share with our fellow brothers and sisters. I encourage you to get the facts about this essential health benefit that is available and covered by most private insurers and Medicare. Our professional and caring staff are also standing by our HelpLine to answer any questions and refer you to responsible screening and care near you.
This Veteran’s Day, help a veteran in more ways than one, and encourage them to talk with their doctor about their risk for lung cancer and if screening makes sense for them. It’s the best gift you can give!
Contact our support staff for any and all questions related to lung cancer by calling 1-800-298-2436 or emailing support@go2.org.
I like how you mentioned how military men have had exposure to chemical pollutants, which can cause cancer. My brother is worried that he might have some sort of cancer since he’s always getting sick and is always tired. He should find some sort of program through the VA that can help get him tested.
Thank you for sharing this Taylor, we are so sorry that your brother has been struggling with his health. If you have questions about how to find screening please feel free to contact our support services team by emailing support@go2.org or calling 1-800-298-2436. We’re thinking of you and your brother.