CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (KCRG) – On November 19, the American Lung Association unveiled its comprehensive 2024 “State of Lung Cancer” report, shedding light on critical health concerns across the nation.
Lung cancer remains the foremost cause of cancer-related fatalities in both Iowa and the United States, emphasizing the urgent need for awareness and prevention strategies.
This year, the report reveals a troubling statistic: Iowa ranks among the states with the highest incidence of new lung cancer cases, boasting a rate of 61.2 per 100,000 individuals, which starkly surpasses the national average of 53.6 per 100,000.
Kristina Hamilton, the Director of Advocacy for the American Lung Association, highlighted that elevated radon levels in the state, coupled with a higher-than-average smoking rate, significantly contribute to the alarming rise in lung cancer cases encountered in Iowa.
In a positive development for lung cancer patients, recent legislation mandates that health insurance plans in Iowa now cover biomarker testing, expanding access to vital diagnostics that can significantly influence treatment pathways.
“Lung cancer biomarker testing, sometimes referred to as tumor molecular genomic or genetic testing, examines alterations in a tumor’s DNA. The findings can unveil biomarkers that assist in determining the most effective treatment options tailored for individual patients. In May, Governor Reynolds signed House File 2668 into law, thus ensuring that Iowa health insurance plans cover biomarker testing. This measure is poised to enhance lung cancer outcomes significantly and guarantees that individuals receive targeted and specialized treatment,” said Kristina Hamilton, underscoring the importance of this legislative change.
Here’s how Iowa ranked in key categories:
39 out of 49 in the nation for rate of new lung cancer cases at 61.2 per 100,000. The national rate is 53.6 per 100,000.
32 out of 47 in the nation for survival at 26.3%. The national rate of people alive five years after a lung cancer diagnosis is 28.4%.
31 out of 47 in the nation for early diagnosis at 26.9%. Nationally, only 27.4% of cases are diagnosed at an early stage when the survival rate is much higher.
23 out of 51 in the nation for lung cancer screening at 16.8%. Lung cancer screening with annual low-dose CT scans for those at high risk can reduce the lung cancer death rate by up to 20%. Nationally, only 16% of those at high risk were screened.
34 out of 47 in the nation for surgery at 17.7%. Lung cancer can often be treated with surgery if it is diagnosed at an early stage and has not spread. Nationally, 20.7% of cases underwent surgery.
17 out of 47 in the nation for lack of treatment at 18.6%. Nationally, 20.9% of cases receive no treatment.
How can legislative changes in health insurance coverage for biomarker testing impact lung cancer treatment outcomes in Iowa?
**Interview with Kristina Hamilton, Director of Advocacy for the American Lung Association**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Kristina. The recently released 2024 “State of Lung Cancer” report has brought attention to some concerning trends, particularly here in Iowa. Can you elaborate on the findings regarding Iowa’s lung cancer incidence?
**Kristina Hamilton:** Absolutely, and thank you for having me. The report indeed highlights that Iowa has a staggering lung cancer incidence rate of 61.2 per 100,000 individuals, significantly higher than the national average of 53.6. This is a major public health concern, and it underscores the importance of addressing both prevention and early diagnosis.
**Editor:** What factors do you believe are contributing to Iowa’s high rates of lung cancer?
**Kristina Hamilton:** There are several key factors. Elevated radon levels in homes and buildings are a significant issue in Iowa, as radon exposure is a known risk factor for lung cancer. Additionally, Iowa has a smoking rate that exceeds the national average, which compounds the risk. Together, these factors create an urgent need for increased awareness and preventive measures.
**Editor:** It’s encouraging to learn there has been progress in terms of legislative support for lung cancer patients. Can you tell us more about the recent changes in health insurance coverage for biomarker testing?
**Kristina Hamilton:** Certainly! Recently enacted legislation now mandates that health insurance plans in Iowa cover biomarker testing for lung cancer patients. This testing is crucial because it can reveal specific genetic alterations in tumors that guide treatment decisions. With this added support, more patients will have access to personalized treatment options, which can improve outcomes significantly.
**Editor:** How can residents of Iowa become more proactive in addressing lung cancer?
**Kristina Hamilton:** Awareness is key. I encourage everyone to get their homes tested for radon and to support smoke-free initiatives in their communities. Additionally, advocating for screening and discussing lung cancer risks with healthcare providers can lead to earlier detection. Every action counts in the fight against this disease.
**Editor:** Thank you, Kristina, for sharing these important insights. It’s vital that we spread awareness about lung cancer and the steps we can take to combat it.
**Kristina Hamilton:** Thank you for highlighting this critical issue. Together, we can make a difference in the fight against lung cancer.
