Providence highlights advanced lung cancer diagnostics for Lung Cancer Awareness Month
November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month, and Providence St. Joseph Hospital Eureka is leading the way in advanced lung cancer detection and care with the addition of a groundbreaking tool to diagnose lung cancer: the Ion Robotic Bronchoscopy Platform, a new technology that’s reshaping lung biopsy procedures.
Lung cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in the United States. In Humboldt County, 17 percent of residents smoke, compared to the state average of 10 percent, putting them at higher risk. Fewer than one-third of people diagnosed with lung cancer survive beyond five years, but early detection through screening can save lives and give patients more options.
The Ion robot performs minimally invasive, precise biopsies of lung nodules, enabling earlier diagnosis and treatment. Providence St. Joseph Hospital Eureka pulmonologist Dr. Robert Young, board-certified in pulmonary critical care, leads the use of the Ion robotic bronchoscopy platform, which is improving patient outcomes.
"The Ion robot represents a major advancement in lung cancer diagnostics in our area," said Dr. Young. "The precision allows us to safely reach and biopsy small nodules deep within the lung that were previously difficult to access. This means we can diagnose cancer earlier, reduce complications and provide patients with answers faster, which is critical in guiding treatmentvdecisions."
The hospital also provides annual low-dose CT scans for eligible adults. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends screening for adults who are 50 to 80 years of age and have a 20 pack-year smoking history, including current smokers and those who quit within the past 15 years.
Radiologists review all scan results and assign a Lung-RADS score. Suspicious findings are evaluated by a team of specialists in radiology, pulmonology, oncology and surgery. The screening coordinator tracks results and ensures patients receive timely follow-up and support.
"Early detection is the most powerful tool we have in the fight against lung cancer," said Priscilla Lynn, director of cancer and infusion services, Providence St. Joseph Hospital Eureka. "The Ion robot’s advanced technology and local access to low-dose CT screening gives our patients the best chance at timely diagnosis, effective treatment and improved outcomes."
By combining innovation with compassionate care, Providence continues to lead efforts to improve outcomes and raise awareness about lung cancer prevention and screening.
Patients who meet screening criteria are encouraged to talk with their provider or call 707-719-0550, option 2 to schedule an exam. Learn about our Cancer Program here: Cancer Program | St. Joseph Hospital Eureka |Providence
About Providence in Humboldt County
Providence is committed to meeting the highest standards in health care delivery while ministering to the needs of the whole person – body, mind and spirit. This commitment to the people of the North Coast is expressed in the Providence’s five core values – Compassion, Dignity, Excellence, Justice and Integrity. In Humboldt County, Providence operates St. Joseph Hospital in Eureka and Redwood Memorial Hospital in Fortuna and offers a comprehensive network of specialty care and services including a Level III Trauma Center, Level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, and a Cancer Center Accredited by the Commission on Cancer. The health care ministry of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange began in Humboldt County during the flu epidemic of 1918. The Sisters opened the first St. Joseph Hospital in Eureka in 1920 and committed to continually improving the health and quality of life of the people served. This commitment continues today and has been further defined by the vision of Providence – Health for a Better World.