Lung Cancer Prevention and Support Resources

Contributed by Audra Stewart-Gordon, Community Health and Communications Coordinator

August 1 is World Lung Cancer Day — a moment to unite globally while spotlighting how we can help locally. In Hancock and Washington counties, dedicated programs and services offer screenings, support, and guidance right in our community.

Low-Dose CT Screenings in Washington County

Down East Community Hospital (Machias) and Calais Community Hospital offer low-dose CT lung cancer screening. As lung cancer is the leading cancer-related cause of death in Washington County, early detection here is crucial. https://www.dech.org/2024/01/31/washington-county-hospitals-soon-to-offer-low-dose-lung-cancer-screenings.

Downeast Cancer Patient Navigation Program

Through Healthy Acadia and the Beth C. Wright Cancer Resource Center, the Downeast Cancer Patient Navigation Program offers personalized guidance for residents of Hancock & Washington counties. Services include coordinating diagnostics, treatment plans, emotional support, tobacco cessation, and financial aid — all free and confidential HA - DECPN — Healthy Acadia

Beth C. Wright Cancer Resource Center (Ellsworth and Baileyville )

Located at 23 Commerce Park, Ellsworth, this center offers monthly support groups, educational lectures, wellness services, and follow-up care, with an emphasis on lung health and prevention. https://www.bethwrightcancercenter.org/

Tobacco Treatment & Prevention in Hancock County

Mount Desert Island (MDI) Hospital received a $12,966 Maine Cancer Foundation grant to launch a Freedom from Smoking-based tobacco cessation and prevention program, led by trained health coaches. This initiative is especially relevant to lung cancer risk reduction mdihospital.org.

Other Valuable Resources

  • American Cancer Society (Maine): Free rides to treatment (Road To Recovery), lodging assistance, helpline at 1-800-227-2345, and local support events. Maine | American Cancer Society

  • American Lung Association: Lung Help Line (1-800-LUNG-USA), online chat, and access to the “Inspire” lung cancer survivor community. https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/lung-cancer/living-with-lung-cancer/find-support

  • Free ME From Lung Cancer: National support for early screening, radon abatement, and financial aid. https://www.freemefromlungcancer.org

  • Hospice Volunteers of Hancock County: Provides additional community care and support resources.  Hospice Volunteers of Hancock County, Maine - Hospice Volunteers of Hancock County

How You Can Help

  • Get screened: Talk with your provider about low-dose CT scans, especially if you're in Hancock or Washington County.

  • Seek patient navigation: Utilize the Downeast Cancer Patient Navigation Program for assistance with appointments, treatments, and more.

  • Join support groups: Check meeting dates at the Beth C. Wright Center or online via ACS/Lung Association.

  • Quit smoking: Explore tobacco cessation classes through MDI Hospital’s new program.

  • Spread the word: Encourage loved ones in Eastern Maine to use these services and share this post on social media to raise awareness locally.

World Lung Cancer Day is a global cause, but here in Downeast Maine, we have local heroes and systems actively helping our neighbors fight lung cancer. By raising awareness about these screening options, navigation services, and support programs, we empower our community with knowledge and hope.

This article was developed with support from AI-assisted writing tools and reviewed by our team for accuracy and clarity.

POSTTracey CarlsonHPM, health, lung cancer