CHRISTUS Health Highlights Advanced Technology During Lung Cancer Awareness Month

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Dr. Gregory White, Pulmonologist

During Lung Cancer Awareness Month, CHRISTUS Health is highlighting the importance of annual lung cancer screening for eligible patients and the advanced technology now available in Texarkana to support earlier, more precise diagnoses.

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer death in the United States. According to the American Cancer Society, an estimated 229,410 people in the United States will be diagnosed with lung and bronchus cancer in 2026, and nearly 125,000 people are expected to die from the disease.

"Early detection can make a significant difference in a patient's outcome," said Dr. Gregory White, pulmonologist with CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic in Texarkana. “When it comes to lung cancer, timing is everything and the earlier we can detect a potential issue, the more likely we can reach a positive outcome.”

CHRISTUS Health recently introduced the Noah Galaxy robotic bronchoscopy system and the Van Gogh rapid tissue analysis technology, providing pulmonologists at CHRISTUS St. Michael with additional tools to biopsy small lung lesions and obtain critical information during procedures.

"The Noah Galaxy system allows us to navigate through the lungs with greater precision to reach small nodules, while Van Gogh provides rapid feedback on tissue samples during the procedure," White said. "Together, these technologies help us make more informed decisions and may reduce the need for repeat procedures."

The addition of the technology brings advanced diagnostic capabilities closer to home for patients throughout the ARK-LA-TEX and the surrounding region.

"Having access to this technology in Texarkana means patients can receive sophisticated lung cancer diagnostics without traveling to larger metropolitan areas," White said. "Our goal is to provide the highest level of care close to where our patients live and work."

White encourages adults ages 50 to 80 who currently smoke or quit within the past 15 years and have a 20-pack-year smoking history to discuss annual lung cancer screening with their health care provider.

Some symptoms that may be associated with lung cancer include:

  • Coughing up blood

  • Shortness of breath

  • Chest pain

  • Hoarseness

  • Loss of appetite

  • Unexplained weight loss

  • Fatigue or weakness

  • Persistent infections, such as bronchitis or pneumonia

"Screening saves lives," White said. " If you are at increased risk for lung cancer, talking with your provider about screening could be one of the most important decisions you make for your health."

For more information about lung cancer screening or pulmonary services, visit HERE.