Report: Florida ranks 45th in for untreated lung cancer cases
TAMPA – The American Lung Association in Florida released its 2025 State of Lung Cancer report, revealing that Florida ranks 45th in the nation for untreated lung cancer cases.
Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer deaths statewide and nationally.
The report shows Florida ranks 22nd for new cases, 42nd for early diagnosis and 29th for screening, with only 18% of high-risk individuals screened annually.
“In the last decade, we have seen incredible progress, including increases in lung cancer survival and early detection rates across the nation,” said Ashley Lyerly, senior director of advocacy. “While this progress gives us hope, Florida still has higher than the average rate of residents diagnosed with lung cancer who are seeking no treatment.”
The Lung Association urges policies requiring comprehensive biomarker testing coverage.
Learn more at Lung.org/solc or register for the Fight For Air Climb Tampa at FightForAirClimb.org/Tampa.
Hospital offers breastfeeding support
LUTZ – St. Joseph’s Hospital-North offers a free in-person breastfeeding support group and class during December.
Both events are open to all no matter which hospital you delivered or plan to deliver your children. The events will be held in St. Joseph’s Hospital-North classrooms, 4211 Van Dyke Road.
- Breastfeeding Support Group: For breastfeeding mothers, their babies and one support person (grandmother, aunt, etc.) The group provides a place where breastfeeding mothers receive support from other breastfeeding mothers and certified breastfeeding consultants. The support group will be held Dec. 11, 10 to 11 a.m.
- Understanding Breastfeeding: This class provides information to the expectant mother and her support person about breastfeeding basics, skin-to-skin contact, tips for returning to work and when to call a health care provider or lactation consultant. The class will be held Dec. 11, 1 to 5 p.m.
Get answers on Medicare
- PETERSBURG – SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) is a free program offered by the Florida Department of Elder Affairs and the Area Agency on Aging of Pasco & Pinellas.
Specially trained volunteers can assist with Medicare, Medicaid and health insurance questions by providing one-on-one counseling and information.
They’ll answer questions at the following Medicare Basics programs:
- Nov. 20 at 10:30 a.m. at the New River Library, 34043 FL-54, Wesley Chapel; 813-788-6375
- Nov. 13 at 10:30 a.m. at the Hugh Embry Library, 14215 4th St., Dade City; 352-567-3576
- Nov. 25 at 10:30 a.m. at the Centennial Park Library, 5740 Moog Road, Holiday; 727-834-3204.
SHINE services are free, unbiased and confidential. Counselors do not sell anything. They can be reached by calling 1-800-963-5337 or 727-217-8111.
