A free community symposium this weekend will focus on lung cancer screening, treatment options and barriers that can prevent people from seeking care.
The event, “Lung Cancer Screening to Treatment 2.0,” is scheduled for Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the International Institute of St. Louis, 3401 Arsenal St.
The symposium is being organized by The HEAL Collaborative in partnership with Five Star Center Inc. and Southside Wellness Center.
Organizers said the program will include information on screening eligibility, treatment options, biomarker and genetic testing, patient navigation services and support resources. Attendees will be able to learn whether they qualify for lung cancer screening through on-site assessments and participate in discussions about stigma, fear and quality-of-life issues faced by patients and families.
Attendees will also hear from medical professionals affiliated with Washington University School of Medicine, Siteman Cancer Center and the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. Black Americans are more likely to die from the disease than other racial and ethnic groups, despite having lower smoking rates than white Americans, according to the American Lung Association and other health organizations.
The symposium is intended to address misconceptions about who is at risk for lung cancer. While smoking is associated with most lung cancer cases, organizers noted that other factors, including radon exposure, air pollution, asbestos and genetics, can also increase risk. Many people diagnosed with lung cancer have never smoked.
According to The HEAL Collaborative, 87 people attended a previous St. Louis symposium and seven participants were identified as eligible for lung cancer screening. Organizers said the results highlighted the role community outreach can play in connecting residents with preventive care and medical resources.
Admission is free, and lunch will be provided. Registration is required at healcollaborative.org.