Saved by the Scan: CMC Brings Lung Cancer Awareness and Early Detection to the Community
Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths, often because it is diagnosed in more advanced stages. However, early detection can make a significant difference in treatment options and outcomes. Through advanced technology, screening opportunities, and community education, CMC’s lung screening program is working to make early detection more accessible to people throughout the Grand Strand.
Could you be at higher risk for lung cancer? Talk to your primary care provider about a referral for lung cancer screening at CMC. For pulmonology appointments, call CMC Pulmonary & Sleep Medicine at 843-234-6888.
“Lung cancer is usually found at a later stage, and treatment works better when it’s detected early,” said Dr. Hafez Hayek, pulmonologist at Conway Medical Center. “If we can find lung cancer at an early stage, we can improve outcomes. When diagnosed at an early stage, the five-year survival rate is about 90 percent, but if we diagnose it late stage, that survival rate can drop below 5 percent, so it’s very important that we find it early.”
One way CMC is advancing lung care is through its ION Robotic Bronchoscopy program. This minimally invasive, robotic-assisted technology helps physicians navigate the tiny airways of the lungs to reach and biopsy small nodules that may be difficult to access using traditional methods.
Dr. Hayek compares the technology to GPS, guiding physicians through the lungs with greater precision. The procedure requires no surgical incisions, and most patients can return home the same day, allowing them to move through the diagnostic process with less disruption.
“Having this technology here in Horry County saves patients from traveling and allows us to provide advanced care close to home,” Dr. Hayek said.
Screening is another important part of early detection. Current guidelines recommend annual low-dose CT lung cancer screening for certain adults ages 50 to 80 with a significant smoking history. Both current and former smokers may qualify. Anyone with a history of smoking should talk with their healthcare provider about whether screening is appropriate.
Saved By the Scan Event
To help bring these resources directly to the community, CMC will host Saved by the Scan, a free lung health and awareness event on Wednesday, November 18, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the pond behind CMC’s Administration Building, located at 300 Singleton Ridge Road in Conway.
Attendees can explore the ION Mobile Experience, watch a live demonstration of robotic bronchoscopy, learn about lung cancer prevention and early detection, and take advantage of on-site lung cancer and wellness screenings. The event will also feature free primary care consultations, community vendors, food trucks, and giveaways. The first 50 individuals who qualify will receive a free low-dose CT scan.
This November, Conway Medical Center invites the community to learn more, ask questions, and take an active role in protecting their lung health. Because when it comes to lung cancer, finding it early can make all the difference.
To register for the Saved by the Scan event on November 18, CLICK HERE.
