Lung Cancer Screening in a Primary Care Clinic for Coal Mine

Author

glenda millsFollow
Sarah Cobb

Date of Award

Spring 2024

Document Type

DNP Project

Project Team Faculty Member

Dr. Annie Imboden

Project Team Faculty Member

Dr. Bernadette Sobczak

Keywords

Lung Cancer, Lung Cancer Screening, Coal Mine, Coal Miners, Primary Care

Abstract

Lung cancer is the leading cause of mortality for both men and women in the United States. Guidelines are set by the American Cancer Society for annual screenings of at-risk patients. Early identification of lung cancer risk and screening with low-dose CT scans can increase detection and treatment thereby reducing risk of death or disability. Coal miners are exposed to numerous cancer-causing agents, such as toxic chemicals, dust pollution from coal, and diesel exhaust fumes. However, primary care clinics serving coal miners lack lung cancer screenings despite the increased risk miners face. Patients were screened using criteria set forth by the American Cancer Society: ages 50-80, current smoker or having smoked in last 15 years, and have a 20 pack-year smoking history. Brochures distributed by the American Cancer Society were given and option of pursuing further screening offered. Twenty patients were identified for use in the projectwith only six meeting criteria for a brochure. No patients opted for further screening. Limitations of the study include limited participation and change of clinic from primary care clinic at a coal mine to primary care clinic for all patient populations.

Recommended Citation

mills, glenda and Cobb, Sarah, "Lung Cancer Screening in a Primary Care Clinic for Coal Mine" (2024). Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects. 341.
https://spark.siue.edu/dnpprojects/341

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