Lung cancer screening is one of the simplest tools available in cancer care, yet it remains widely underused. A low-dose CT scan takes just a few minutes and can detect lung cancer at its earliest and most treatable stages.

Jim Pantelas is a Navy Veteran and a 20 plus year lung cancer survivor. He was diagnosed with stage 3B lung cancer at age 52, back when lung cancer screening was not available. Today, he is joining Dr. Drew Moghanaki, a thoracic oncology leader and VA physician, to deliver a clear message to Veterans and anyone with a smoking history.

Get screened. Every year.

Key Topics Discussed:

How lung cancer can grow with no symptoms until it is advanced

Why Veterans may face higher risk from airborne hazards and toxic exposures

What screening is like and why it takes less than three minutes

Why annual screening matters, not just one scan

How early detection expands treatment options and improves outcomes

How to access screening through the VA or through civilian healthcare

Why screening is covered and cost should not stop you

Featured Guests:

Jim Pantelas, Navy Veteran, 20 plus Year Lung Cancer Survivor

Dr. Drew Moghanaki, UCLA and VA Thoracic Oncology Leader

Key Takeaway:

Lung cancer is curable when caught early. If you are eligible, start screening at 50 and go every year.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

PACT Act Benefits and Eligibility: https://www.va.gov/resources/the-pact-act-and-your-va-benefits/

VA Lung Cancer Screening: https://www.prevention.va.gov/preventing_diseases/screening_for_lung_cancer.asp

Airborne Hazards and Burn Pit Registry: https://www.publichealth.va.gov/exposures/burnpits/registry.asp

LCFA Screening Information: https://lcfamerica.org/about-lung-cancer/detection/screening/ 

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#LungCancer #VeteransHealth #CancerScreening #EarlyDetection #VAHealthcare #PACTAct #HopeWithAnswers #LCFA