Lung cancer screening days: reaching out to the general public
Lung cancer is the biggest killer in France, often detected at too advanced a stage for it to go into remission. But early detection can make all the difference. With this in mind, Professor MARQUETTE and his pulmonology teams at the IHU RespirERA have organised ‘Lung Cancer Screening Days’. The aim of these initiatives is to reach out to the most vulnerable sections of the population, who are often far removed from preventive care.
An essential service, accessible to all
On Saturday 19 October and Saturday 2 November 2024, the teams set up their screening facilities at the Auchan shopping centre in La Trinité, in the Alpes-Maritimes department. This was a strategic location to reach a wide audience, particularly people aged 50 to 74 who have smoked or still smoke - a group at high risk of lung cancer.
The aim was clear: to offer a simple, painless and totally free screening method based on a lung scan. This method enables early detection of abnormalities that can be successfully treated. By going directly to the people in an accessible setting, Professor MARQUETTE and his team are reducing the barriers to access to preventive care.
Saving lives through early detection
This ‘outreach’ approach, reaching out to those most at risk, reflects the RespirERA IHU's commitment to reducing health inequalities.
The success of these days depends on effective awareness-raising: explaining the benefits of early screening and reassuring people that the test is simple. This winning combination helps to establish a relationship of trust with participants.
New screening days planned!
These Screening Days are just one stage in an overall strategy to combat lung cancer. By increasing the number of these events throughout the country, the RespirERA IHU hopes to encourage more people to undergo screening, and thus significantly reduce the number of late diagnoses.
To keep abreast of forthcoming initiatives, follow the RespirERA IHU news on this website and its social networks.
