Breast and Lung Cancer Screening: Who, When, and What to Do

Should I be screened for breast or lung cancer, and what should I expect? Meghana Raghavendra, MD, Board-certified medical oncologist and hematologist practicing at Franciscan Health, walks through the Pink and Pearl awareness campaign and practical screening guidance. She cites that nearly one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer and about one in 17 with lung cancer, explains mammogram recommendations (start at 40, annual, continue through ~74; add MRI/ultrasound for high risk), and details LDCT lung screening (age 50–80, 20 pack‑year history, current smokers or quit within 15 years, with Franciscan offering screening beyond that time cap). She reviews key risk factors—BRCA and family history, dense breasts, prior chest radiation, smoking, second‑hand and occupational exposures—and reminders that mammograms can detect changes up to two years before a lump is palpable. The episode also covers patient concerns about stigma, why screening is quick and painless, and prevention steps like quitting smoking, limiting alcohol, exercising, testing homes for radon, and advocating for any breast or lung symptoms with your provider. 

Learn more about Dr. Raghavendra, visit FranciscanDocs.org and search her name.