Early Detection - The Frontline Against Lung Cancer
Lung cancer remains one of the most serious cancer types in India and globally. This year’s theme for Lung Cancer Awareness Month, “Breaking Barriers: Championing Early Detection and Equal Care,” focuses on removing obstacles, ensuring timely access to screening and treatment for everyone, and leveraging technology for better outcomes. At Malla Reddy Narayana Multispeciality Hospital (MRNH), Hyderabad, our Surgical Oncology and Pulmonology teams are committed to delivering world-class lung cancer care encompassing lung cancer screening, diagnosis, multidisciplinary treatment and patient-centric support.
Breaking Barriers
The phrase “Breaking Barriers” refers to eliminating the stigma, misinformation, and hurdles that prevent people from seeking lung health care. Many believe lung cancer only affects heavy smokers, or that screening is not necessary unless symptoms appear. These misconceptions delay diagnosis and reduce survival. By raising awareness, MRNH encourages at-risk individuals and families to seek evaluation early. We believe that lung cancer care should be accessible, equitable, and non-judgmental, for smokers, non-smokers and all socioeconomic groups.
Early Detection
The key to improving lung cancer survival is Early Detection. Studies show that identifying lung cancer at an early stage significantly improves the chance of successful treatment. In India, many cases present late — often when curative options are limited. At MRNH’s dedicated Lung Cancer Screening and Surgical Oncology unit, we offer targeted lung cancer screening (including low-dose CT scans), risk assessment in the Pulmonology clinic and follow-up with our thoracic oncology and robotic surgery team. Research indicates that low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) based screening in high-risk individuals can reduce lung cancer-related mortality. Early detection means more options: minimally invasive surgery, better outcomes, shorter hospital stay, and improved quality of life.
Equal Care
Equal Care means offering the same standard of lung cancer screening, diagnosis and treatment to everyone regardless of age, gender, location, income or smoking history. At MRNH, we emphasise equitable access to our Pulmonology, Thoracic Surgery and Surgical Oncology services. Whether you are a patient with a long smoking history or a non‐smoker exposed to air pollution, our multidisciplinary lung cancer team ensures you get a personalised screening plan, expert surgical care and post-treatment support. Implementing screening programmes and outreach initiatives are vital to narrowing gaps in lung cancer care across India.
Leveraging Technology
Technology plays a crucial role in modern lung cancer care. At MRNH, our departments utilise advanced imaging (high-resolution CT, PET-CT), minimally invasive and robotic thoracic surgery, and digital healthcare platforms for better coordination. Emerging tools like AI-based image analysis and digital health screening modules promise faster, more accurate diagnosis and follow-up. With these tools, we can offer precise lung cancer surgery, early intervention and smoother recovery, reinforcing our position as a leader in surgical oncology and robotic onco-surgery in Hyderabad.
Our Approach at Malla Reddy Narayana Multispeciality Hospital
- Risk assessment & screening: If you are 50 years or older, have a history of smoking, or exposure to environmental risk-factors, visit our Pulmonology & Lung-Screening clinic. Early lung cancer screening is important even before symptoms appear.
- Diagnosis & multidisciplinary care: If a lung nodule or suspicious lesion is detected, our Surgical Oncology, Thoracic Surgery and Radiation Oncology teams work together under one roof to plan a tailored pathway.
- Minimally invasive & robotic surgery: Our Thoracic Surgery unit offers video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) and robotic lung cancer surgery to remove early stage tumours with smaller incisions, less pain and faster recovery.
- Follow-up & support: Post-treatment, the patient enters our survivorship programme monitoring, rehabilitation, lifestyle counselling (smoking cessation, pollution avoidance, exercise) and digital follow-up tools to maintain lung health.
Why it matters
When lung cancer is caught early, the chance of curative treatment increases dramatically. By championing early screening and equal care, MRNH not only improves outcomes but also reduces the heavy burden of late-stage disease. Our vision aligns with the 2025 theme: to break barriers, detect early, and ensure equal care for all.
Take action today
If you or a loved one have risk factors such as a history of smoking, persistent cough, unexplained weight loss, recurring chest infections, or exposure to environmental pollutants, don’t wait. Contact the Lung & Thoracic Oncology team at Malla Reddy Narayana Multispeciality Hospital, Hyderabad for a screening consultation. Early detection saves lives.
FAQs:
- Who should undergo lung cancer screening?
High-risk individuals, typically those aged 50 or over, with a history of heavy smoking or significant exposure to environmental pollutants should discuss screening (such as low-dose CT) with a specialist. - What does “early detection” mean in lung cancer?
It means finding the disease before symptoms appear, when it is still small and localised, increasing the potential for curative treatment and better survival. - How does Malla Reddy Narayana Multispeciality Hospital ensure equal care?
Our multidisciplinary team, screening programmes and patient-centric pathways ensure that every patient regardless of background or risk profile receives the same high standard of Pulmonology, Thoracic Surgery and Surgical Oncology care. - What technology is used for lung cancer detection and treatment?
We use advanced imaging (high-resolution CT, PET-CT), minimally invasive and robotic thoracic surgery, and digital platforms that help with early detection, diagnosis, treatment planning and follow-up. - What lifestyle steps can reduce lung cancer risk in addition to screening?
Quit smoking, avoid second-hand and third-hand smoke, minimise exposure to air pollutants, maintain a healthy diet and regular exercise. These preventive efforts support early detection and effective treatment.