Eye on Health: Finding lung cancer earlier with robotic-assisted bronchoscopy

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death for both men and women. Many people don’t know they have it until the cancer has spread, making it harder to treat.

In this month’s Eye on Health segment, pulmonologist Muhammad Saeed, MD, and Nurse Practitioner Theresa Malcom explain how robotic-assisted bronchoscopy is helping doctors find and diagnose lung cancer earlier. Watch the WSBT segment to learn how this technology helps doctors reach hard-to-access areas of the lung and why lung cancer screening is so important.

Better access to hard-to-reach areas

Robotic-assisted bronchoscopy helps doctors move through the lungs with greater precision. This allows them to reach small lung nodules that can be difficult to access with other methods.

The technology helps doctors collect tissue samples and learn more about a patient’s condition. That can lead to quicker answers and help care teams start treatment sooner if cancer is found.

Early detection can save lives

Lung cancer often causes few or no symptoms in its early stages. That’s one reason lung cancer screening is so important for people who are at higher risk.

Risk factors include smoking, a history of smoking, radon exposure, secondhand smoke, some workplace exposures and family history. A low-dose CT scan can help find signs lung cancer before symptoms begin.

When lung cancer is found early, treatment is often more effective. Early detection gives patients the best chance for successful treatment.

Expert lung care close to home

Beacon’s pulmonary team uses leading technology and a team approach to diagnose and treat lung conditions. Whether you qualify for a lung cancer screening or need follow-up care for a lung nodule, Beacon specialists are here to help.

Learn more about lung cancer screening and pulmonary care at Beacon Health System.