Huntsman Cancer Institute is utilizing advanced robotic systems for cancer surgery, including single-port, Ion robotic bronchoscopy and da Vinci 5 systems, to enhance precision, access, and recovery. These technologies are also being used to train surgeons nationwide in advanced techniques.
In Utah, efforts to improve lung cancer screening are ongoing. While lung cancer screening can improve survival, only 12% of eligible Utahns currently receive screening due to barriers such as stigma, data gaps, and low awareness. Additionally, expanded legislation in Utah now funds comprehensive cancer screening for firefighters to better understand occupational exposures and long-term risks.
Medical professionals are highlighting various risk factors and prevention methods. Pulmonologist Chakravarthy Reddy, MD, has noted the importance of discussing screening with doctors for current or former smokers. Other risks for non-smokers include radon, air pollution, and second-hand smoke. Cancer epidemiologist Judy Ou, PhD, MPH, has also addressed the potential harm wildfire smoke can pose to individuals with cancer or a history of cancer.
Research continues into diverse areas of lung cancer care and discovery. This includes a multimillion dollar grant awarded to researcher Michelle Mendoza and biomedical engineer Jeffrey Weiss to study the biomechanics and origins of malignant lung tumors. Other research areas involve the impact of personalized exercise programs on recovery for lung cancer surgery patients and the use of digital tools that have quadrupled screening rates for high-risk patients.
Individual stories highlight the impact of the disease and the importance of advocacy. Kerri Robbins, a Utah County grandmother, has been raising awareness and promoting radon testing following a lung cancer diagnosis linked to radon exposure. Other patients, such as Samantha Murrell and Rob Pierce, have shared their personal journeys through stage 4 cancer diagnoses and their subsequent treatments.
