R.I. has one of the highest rates of new lung cancer cases in U.S., report finds

PROVIDENCE – Rhode Island has one of the highest rates of new lung cancer cases in the country, but also the best lung cancer five-year survival rate, according to a new report by the American Lung Association.

The association released the “State of Lung Cancer” in November, an annual report looking at lung cancer in the United States and highlighting findings related to new cases, survival, early diagnosis, treatment, and screening and prevention rates for each state.

Rhode Island ranked No. 43 in the U.S. for rate of new lung cancer cases, which was 68.5 per 100,000 persons, compared with the national rate of 56.7 per 100,000 persons. The Ocean State ranked No. 1 in the country for survival rate at 30.8%, compared with the 25% national rate.

“Lung cancer screening is key to early diagnosis, and early diagnosis saves lives. Here in Rhode Island, we have the highest five-year survival rate in the nation and one of the highest rates of new lung cancer cases, which makes these lifesaving screenings more important than ever,” said Daniel Fitzgerald, director of advocacy at the American Lung Association in Rhode Island. “We all can help reduce the burden of lung cancer in Rhode Island. If you are eligible for lung cancer screening, we encourage you to speak with your doctor about it. If a loved one is eligible, please encourage them to get screened.”

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Other Rhode Island highlights:

  • The state ranked No. 2 in the U.S. for high-risk lung cancer screening at 13.4%, while the national rate was 5.8%.
  • Rhode Island also ranked No. 2 for lack of treatment at 14%, while nationally 20.6% of cases receive no treatment.
  • The Ocean State ranked No. 3 for surgery at 28.3%, compared with 20.8% nationwide.
  • The state also ranked No. 3 for early diagnosis at 30.4%, compared with 25.8% nationally.

Claudia Chiappa is a PBN staff writer. You may contact her at Chiappa@PBN.com.