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Research brings hope for lung cancer treatment options

6/28/2021, WSAW-TV (CBS)

Anyone that has been diagnosed with lung cancer or has a loved one facing this disease knows it can be a terrifying experience. Sadly, it’s an experience that far too many people go through. Lung cancer is the second most common form of cancer in men and women in the United States, and non-small cell lung cancer, or NSCLC, is the most common type – accounting for up to 85% of all diagnoses.

One common reason for the fear surrounding lung cancer is uncertainty about treatment options. A recent survey showed that just 20% of Americans would feel hopeful when considering available therapies if they were diagnosed with lung cancer today and only 5% would feel in control.

But a new development in research has been unveiled at a major medical meeting giving hope to some patients with a certain type of advanced non-small cell lung cancer.

OPDIVO (nivolumab) is a prescription medicine used in combination with YERVOY (ipilimumab) as a first treatment for adults with non-small cell lung cancer.

Dr. Steve McCune is part of the cancer care team at Northwest Georgia Oncology Centers. He joined Sunrise 7 to talk about this treatment option and how it differs from typical treatments, like chemotherapy.

To see Dr. McCune's interview, click the link below. Read more about Dr. McCune, a Georgia CORE Board Member.

Media, News & Events

Lawmakers conclude listening tour on access to cancer care

Rep. Lee Hawkins, R-Gainesville, the committee’s chairman, said he and other lawmakers are working on drug pricing and other issues. He wrapped up the committee’s listening tour by saying the General Assembly will continue to study cancer care access.

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