November Is Lung Cancer Awareness Month: Episcopal Health ServicesUrges Early Detection, Screening and Knowing Your Risk Factors

Far Rockaway, New York, November 4, 2026 — FAR ROCKAWAY, N.Y., Nov. 2, 2026 —According to the American Cancer Society, lung cancer is the most diagnosed cancer in both men and women in the United States, excluding skin cancers. Approximately 1 in 19 people will develop lunger cancer in their lifetime. While smoking is the number one reason why people develop lung cancer, non-smokers can also develop the disease.

In recognition of Lung Cancer Awareness Month in November, Marc Warshawsky, MD, Chief on Oncology and Hematology at the Episcopal Health Services Cancer Center is encouraging community members to learn about lung cancer risk factors, recognize potential symptoms and discuss screening with their physician.

“Screening with low-dose CT (LDCT) is the best way to help detect lung cancer before symptoms appear, “ said Dr. Warshawsky. “The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends annual LDCT screening for adults ages 50 to 80 who have a 20-pack-year or greater smoking history and currently smoke or quit within the past 15 years. However, patients should discuss eligibility, benefits and potential harms with their health care provider.”

Lung Cancer Risk Factors

• Smoking or a history of smoking is the number one cause
• Exposure to secondhand smoke
• Family or personal history of lung cancer or certain other cancers
• Radon, asbestos, radiation and other carcinogenic exposures
• Air pollution
• Certain inherited or acquired genetic changes
• A history of certain lung diseases, including tuberculosis

Know the Warning Signs

Lung cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages. Symptoms that warrant medical evaluation include:

• A persistent cough or a change in an existing cough
• Coughing up blood or increased mucus
• Shortness of breath or chest discomfort
• Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite
• Hoarseness or other voice changes
• Fatigue or weakness
• Recurring or persistent respiratory infections
• Persistent headaches, particularly when accompanied by other concerning symptoms

According to Dr. Warshawsky, treatment decisions are individualized based on the patient’s overall health, age, other medical conditions, cancer stage and molecular characteristics, potential side effects and personal preferences. “There is no one-size-fits-all approach to lung cancer treatment,” Warshawsky said. “We consider the type and stage of cancer, a patient’s overall health and the available therapies to help patients understand their options and participate in decisions about their care.”

Lung Cancer Treatment Options at EHS

EHS provides individualized lung cancer care through a team of radiologists, medical oncologists and radiation oncologists. Specialists review imaging, pathology and other clinical findings to recommend treatment based on the cancer’s characteristics and the patient’s needs. EHS also offers on-site PET/CT imaging for cancer staging. To schedule an appointment at the EHS Cancer Center, visit ehs.org/cancer or call:

• Medical Oncology: 718-869-7949
• Radiation Oncology: 718-869-7101
• Surgical Oncology: 718-347-3627