Through advanced technology, compassionate guidance by a nurse navigator,
and the expertise of a multidisciplinary team of experts, the BHS Lung
Center delivers a personalized and evidence-based approach to lung cancer
treatment using the Fleichner Society Guidelines.
The BHS Lung Center's physicians partner with radiologists, pathologists,
surgeons, oncologists and specialized nurses to ensure that patients receive
the appropriate care from the entire team. Our staff works with a patient’s
primary care physician to keep them informed of the treatment plan.
Lung Center Services
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in Butler County. The
BHS Lung Center was created as a result of the 2013 Community Health Assessment.
Early detection of lung cancer is key to significantly decreasing lung
cancer deaths, resulting in up to 60% of cases being treated successfully.
The BHS Lung Center is proud to offer a CT low dose lung cancer screening
to patients who are designated as a high risk for getting lung cancer.
Most insurances, including Highmark, UPMC and Medicare, cover the screening
cost. Please contact your insurance provider to verify coverage.
To qualify for the screening patients should:
Be between the ages of 55 and 80
Have a large ratio of packs smoked per day to the number of years they
have smoked
Be a current smoker or someone who has smoked in the past 15 years
Be cleared of any medical conditions that would interfere with the tests.
Patients using home oxygen, who have known history of lung cancer or who
have metallic implants such as pacemakers or metal rods do not qualify.
For questions or information on lung cancer screenings, call
724-284-6211.
What is Lung Cancer?
Lung cancer is an aggressive form of cancer in which lung cells begin to
multiply in an abnormal manner and form a tumor. The cells in this tumor
are then qualified as “cancerous” as they start to destroy
healthy cells and tissue in the lung. They may even spread to other parts
of the body. The best way to avoid lung cancer is to avoid smoking and
second hand smoke. It is difficult to catch lung cancer before it spreads
as initial symptoms are mild. Be on the lookout for persistent coughing,
swelling in the neck, chest pain, and shortness of breath.
It's Never Too Late to Quit
No matter how long you have been smoking, your body will benefit from stopping.
Many people in their old age don’t see the point in quitting, but
it has been shown that stopping helps everyone regardless of their age
or if they have smoked for decades. Improvements in your health should
manifest within just a few days of quitting, including: improved circulation,
easier breathing, and improved sense of taste and smell. You also reduce
your chances of developing pneumonia, stroke, cancer, and emphysema. Many
seniors have successfully stopped smoking late in life, the habit is breakable
and the benefits are substantial.
BHS Foundation