The Science of
Lung Cancer Testing
THE CURRENT TESTING
Today's methods of
testing are too late.
Current methods of testing are mostly performed on individuals who fall into the high risk category and show multiple symptoms by the time they are visiting a doctor.
The most common approach is a CT Scan which can be very expensive: one study listed pricing as between $1400 and $2500 per scan (and it is common for patients to have multiple scans).
CT scans also deliver radiation to the body. In less than a minute, a CT Scan delivers 3.3 years worth of radiation. While the link between radiation and cancer development has yet to be conclusively proven, it's certainly not good for the body. One of OncoSwab's missions is to protect patients who are likely already immunocompromised from unnecessary and risky testing.
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THE FUTURE OF TESTING
Changing the future of testing means thinking about testing differently
Using the easy to administer nasal swab/pcr testing approach, OncoSwab's mission is to make Lung Cancer testing affordable, accessible, and accurate...for everyone.
Ironically, those with the highest incidence of Lung Cancer tend to be those who fall into the lowest socioeconomic categories. They are more likely to smoke, less likely to have insurance, and typically from communities with a higher distrust of medical providers and procedures.
Our simple test can be administered at home or in a point of care facility with whom the patient already has a relationship and it costs 1/10th the price of a current CT Scan. By making testing easy and inexpensive, we aim to take the stigma and shame out of a disease that many still blame on the patient and their lifestyle choices.
Lung Cancer is the #1
Cancer Killer in the World!
PREVENTION
There are two main types of Lung Cancer: non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), which makes up 85% of cases, and the more aggressive but less common small cell lung cancer (SCLC).
The American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) has created a staging system that ranges from 0 to IV. In Stage 0, symptoms may be minimal or non-existent. As the stages progress, symptoms may include a persistent cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, and weight loss. Stage IV cancer indicates that the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, such as the bones, brain, or liver.
The more advanced the stage, the harder the cancer is to treat, which is why early detection can be the difference between life and death.
Risk factors
Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, but you don't have to smoke to be at high risk. Those who are frequently exposed to secondhand smoke, by living with a smoker or working in a smoky environment, have just as high a risk.
Chemical exposure, to radon, air pollution, asbestos, or certain chemicals can also significantly increase risk.
People with other lung diseases such as COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) or emphysema can have inflammation and damage to the lungs, which can lead to the development of cancer cells.
The risk of lung cancer increases with age, and is more common in people over 55 years old.
The risk of lung cancer increases with age, and is more common in people over 55 years old.
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PREVENTION
It's never too late to quit smoking! Health benefits start as soon as you clear your lungs and quitting smoking is the single most effective way to reduce your risk of lung cancer.
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Avoid exposure to Radon, a naturally occurring gas that can seep into homes and buildings through cracks in the foundation and flooring. It is easy to have your home tested, and high levels can be reduced through mitigation.
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Avoid spending time near busy roads, in factories, or any other areas of high air pollution.
Avoid asbestos exposure.
If you have job that requires you to interact with chemicals or spend time in an area with high air pollution, take steps to protect yourself by wearing personal protective equipement, such as masks and/or respirators.
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Eat a diet high in fruits and vegetables.
Maintain regular physical activity, which will help by strengthening your immune system, maintaining a healthy weight, and reducing stress.
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