Lung Cancer
Comprehensive Lung Cancer Care at MyMichigan Health
At MyMichigan Health, our Lung Health Program brings together a specialized, multidisciplinary team committed to the prevention, early detection, and treatment of lung disease, including lung cancer. Our team includes pulmonologists, oncologists (medical and radiation), thoracic surgeons, interventional radiologists, pathologists, genetic counselors, and a dedicated lung health navigator—all working together to provide personalized, patient-centered care.
Why Choose MyMichigan Health?
We’re accredited by the American College of Surgeons and provide:
- A team approach with expert case reviews
- Access to specialists and the latest treatments
- A Lung Cancer Screening Clinic for high-risk individuals
- Emotional and caregiver support through the Maria Mencia Cancer Caregiver Support Network
Your lung health matters—start your journey to prevention, detection, or treatment with the experts at MyMichigan Health.
Specialized Care, When You Need It Most
Everyone has questions when facing a health concern—and you are never a bother. From the moment you reach out, our dedicated team is here to provide guidance, support, and answers every step of the way.
Diet & Exercise: Good nutrition and physical activity strengthen your body's ability to heal. MyMichigan Medical Centers offer Nutrition Counseling from licensed dietitians for patients and families.
Feeling Better & Stronger: Recovery can be challenging. Our Specialized Cancer Rehabilitation Program helps patients regain strength and confidence through a team of specially trained rehabilitation professionals.
You are never alone—let us help you navigate this journey.
Understanding Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among men and women in the United States. Approximately 200,000 Americans are diagnosed each year. Key risk factors include smoking, secondhand smoke, exposure to asbestos or radon, and a personal or family history of cancer.
Prevention
Lung cancer is largely preventable. The most effective step you can take is to quit smoking. Quitting not only lowers your risk but also improves treatment effectiveness and long-term outcomes.
Smoking Cessation Resources:
Additionally, staying active (30 minutes of exercise 3–4 times per week) and maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fiber supports lung health.
Lung Cancer Screening
Early detection saves lives. MyMichigan offers Lung Cancer Screening Clinics in Alpena, Midland, and Mt. Pleasant. You may qualify if you:
- Age 50 to 80 And
- Current smoker with a 20-pack/year history or quit within the last 15 years And
- Have smoked for 20+ years
Low-dose CT (LDCT) scans significantly reduce mortality in high-risk individuals. Most insurances cover this test if criteria are met. Call (989) 488-5930 to learn more.
What to Expect:
- Initial visit: tobacco use assessment, commitment to quit, LDCT screening order
- Scan performed
- Follow-up visit to review results and determine next steps
Understanding Lung Nodules
What is a lung nodule? A small area, dense spot on the lung seen on a CT scan, often caused by prior infections or scarring. Most nodules are benign.
What can cause a lung nodule?
Nodules can be caused by anything that might have irritated your lung and made a scar including previous infections.
Sometimes a nodule can be an early lung cancer.
Size Guide:
- 1 mm - pencil lead
- 5 mm - pencil eraser
- 10 mm - small candy
- 20 mm - peanut
- 50 mm - lime
Most lung nodules are less than 10 millimeters (about ½ inch).
Should I worry? Less than 5% of nodules are cancerous. Nodules are monitored over time for changes.
Next Steps May Include:
- Additional scans
- Lung-RADS score to guide follow-up
- Occasionally, a biopsy (needle or surgical)
What If Something Else Is Found?
Screening CTs image the entire chest and may reveal other conditions (e.g., emphysema, heart issues). Lung-RADS category "S" addresses such findings. Your provider will guide any further evaluation.
Signs & Symptoms
Lung cancer may not cause symptoms early on. Talk to your doctor if you experience:
- Persistent or worsening cough
- Coughing up blood
- Chest pain
- Wheezing or shortness of breath
- Recurring respiratory infections
- Hoarseness lasting over two weeks
- Fatigue or unexplained loss of appetite or weight
Risk Factors
Avoiding the following can lower your risk:
- Smoking and secondhand smoke
- Radon
- Asbestos and Hazardous chemicals - common in certain work environments
Diagnosing Lung Cancer
Diagnosing often involves a biopsy. Methods include:
- Bronchoscopy - Flexible tube through the airway
- Mediastinoscopy - Surgical biopsy of lymph nodes
- Thoracentesis - Needle removal of chest fluid
- CT-guided biopsy - Needle guided by CT imaging
Treatment Options
After diagnosis, our multidisciplinary team tailors your care using national treatment guidelines. Treatments may include:
We offer ongoing case review, access to alternative treatments, and full support services to help patients and families through every phase of care.
Your Personal Guide During Lung Cancer
At MyMichigan Health, we understand that a breast cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming. That’s why we offer the support of a dedicated Lung Cancer Nurse Navigator—your personal guide through every step of your care journey.
Our Nurse Navigators are specially trained oncology nurses who provide expert guidance, education, and emotional support from diagnosis through treatment and beyond. They help ease the stress of coordinating care, making informed decisions, and understanding your options.
Here to Answer Your Questions
Hearing you may need surgery or follow-up care for your lungs can feel scary, but you don’t have to face it alone. MyMichigan Health has a Surgical Oncology Nurse Navigator, to guide you every step of the way. Think of it as your personal helper, answering your questions, explaining what to expect and making sure your care feels smooth and manageable.
How a Nurse Navigator Makes a Difference
The Nurse Navigator role is an integral part of MyMichigan’s Lung Cancer Screening, which is dedicated to the prevention and early detection of the disease. Whatever the diagnosis, our navigator remains the primary point of contact for patients and their families throughout their entire journey. Our navigator will also:
- Answers Your Questions: No question is too small. We will explain your surgery, treatment options and what to expect in easy-to-understand language.
- Coordinates Your Care: We help schedule appointments, tests and follow-ups so you can focus on healing.
- Supports You Emotionally: The navigator will keep in touch with your care team and primary care provider to streamline communication and appointments. You will also receive resources to help you feel calmer and more confident.
- Checks on Your Recovery: Follows up after surgery, helps with any concerns, and makes sure you’re on track to heal safely.
Meet Our Lung Cancer Nurse Navigator
Erin Papst, R.N., B.S.N.
Erin Papst, R.N., B.S.N. is our surgical oncology nurse navigator for surgical oncology cancer patients. She supports lung patients from the moment of diagnosis through treatment and into survivorship. Her role is to guide, educate and advocate.
Erin’s goal is to ensure no one ever feels alone, and that each person feels truly heard, respected and confident in making decisions about their care.
She helps patients and their families feel informed and supported throughout the entire process. Erin will break down complex medical information into clear, understandable terms, answers questions and ensures they know what to expect at each stage of treatment.
As a Surgical Oncology Nurse Navigator, Erin ensures each patient receives personalized care, clear information and unwavering support throughout their journey. She recognizes that patients are unique individuals with physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs. She strives to address all aspects of their well-being to promote healing and wellness.
To connect with Erin, please call (989) 488-5930.
