SAGINAW - Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among Veterans, and lung cancer screening can save lives.

November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month, and this year will be the third annual National Lung Cancer Screening (LCS) Day observed at Aleda E. Lutz VAMC.

Veterans are invited to the Lung Cancer Screening Awareness Month Event 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Nov. 12 & 13 at Aleda E. Lutz VAMC, 1500 Weiss St. Saginaw.

"National LCS Day aims to highlight the importance of LCS, making Veterans aware of the criteria for LCS and screening for eligibility, link those who smoke to VA's smoking cessation services, and screen qualified Veterans with low-dose CT," stated Ashley Merrill, Lung Cancer Screening Coordinator Nurse. "Please visit our informational booth to learn more as well as receive a complimentary gift and a treat."

Enrolled Veterans may be eligible for lung cancer screening if they:

· Are 50-80 years old

· Smoke cigarettes now or quit within the past 15 years

· Have a smoking history of at least 20 pack-years (this means 1 pack per day for 20 years or 2 packs a day for 10 years, etc.)

In partnership with the American Cancer Society National Lung Cancer Roundtable, American College of Radiology, GO2 for Lung Cancer, and Radiology Healthy Equity Coalition, VA aims to increase access to lung cancer screening by encouraging Veterans to discuss LCS with their health care provider.

More than 110 VHA facilities are participating in this year's National LCS Day activities in the week leading up to Veterans Day, Nov. 12-15th.

Visit My HealtheVet to send a message or make an appointment to talk to your VA provider about lung cancer screening.