November’s Lung Cancer Awareness Month Highlights Importance of Early Detection

By Jose G. Landa, Copyright 2026 Eagle Pass Business Journal, Inc.

Recent statistics showed that more than seven in 10 lung and bronchus cancer cases in Maverick County were diagnosed after the disease had spread, highlighting the importance of early detection as November marks Lung Cancer Awareness Month.

The Maverick County Hospital District is bringing awareness to the disease and encouraging residents to speak with their healthcare providers about their risk and whether lung cancer screening is appropriate.

According to State Cancer Profiles, 71.2 percent of Maverick County lung and bronchus cancer cases were diagnosed at a late stage in recent years, compared with 64.8 percent statewide. Late stage meant the cancer had spread regionally or to distant parts of the body.

The county averaged approximately 10 late-stage diagnoses annually during that period. That figure represented only cases diagnosed after the disease had spread, rather than all new lung cancer diagnoses.

Separate mortality statistics showed Maverick County averaged approximately 11 lung and bronchus cancer deaths annually during 2020 through 2024. The county’s age-adjusted death rate was 20.6 deaths per 100,000 residents, below the Texas rate of 27.0.

Although the county’s death rate was below the statewide figure, the percentage of cases diagnosed at a late stage points to the importance of discussing screening with a healthcare provider.

Lung cancer screening uses a low-dose CT scan to look for cancer before symptoms appear. Screening can reduce the risk of dying from lung cancer among people at high risk by identifying the disease earlier, when treatment may be more effective.

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends annual screening for adults ages 50 through 80 who have a smoking history of at least 20 pack-years and currently smoke or quit within the past 15 years. A 20 pack-year history is equivalent to smoking one pack daily for 20 years or two packs daily for 10 years. Residents should discuss their individual eligibility and the benefits and risks with their healthcare provider.

Through its awareness efforts, the Maverick County Hospital District is encouraging community members to make lung health and early detection part of their healthcare conversations.

For more information, contact the Maverick County Hospital District at (830) 757-4900.