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Lung Cancer does not discriminate; it can affect anyone with lungs.
It's time that Lung Cancer is treated as a priority.

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Dr. Sydney Barned

Lung Cancer Patient Advocate & Medical Doctor

Dr. Sydney Barned

Lung Cancer Patient Advocate & Medical Doctor

Lung Cancer Facts

Lung Cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S.

Lung Cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S.

Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers in the U.S., with someone being diagnosed about every two and a half minutes. There are a variety of risk factors associated with lung cancer, including smoking, exposure to radon gas, air pollution and second-hand smoke. The truth is that anyone can get lung cancer, and no one deserves the disease. In 2022 alone, it is estimated that 237,000 Americans were diagnosed with lung cancer.

Racial disparities exist in lung cancer

People of colour who are diagnosed with lung cancer face worse outcomes compared to white Americans because they are less likely to be diagnosed early, less likely to receive surgical treatment, and more likely to not receive any treatment. Sadly, systemic issues contribute to health disparities, including for those facing lung cancer. More than half of the 31 million uninsured Americans are people of colour, and research is clear that having health coverage impacts people’s medical care and ultimately their health outcomes. Addressing racial disparities in healthcare coverage is critical to addressing racial disparities in lung cancer care.

Survival rates are low, but they are improving

While the disease remains the leading cause of cancer deaths among both women and men, over the past five years, the survival rate has increased 21% to 25%.
According to the 2022 State of Lung Cancer Report, only 26% of lung cancer cases are diagnosed at an early stage when the five-year survival rate is much higher (61%). Unfortunately, 44% of cases are not caught until a late stage when the survival rate is only 7%. Fortunately, the early diagnosis rate for lung cancer has increased by 17% over the past five years.

Survival rates are low, but they are improving

While the disease remains the leading cause of cancer deaths among both women and men, over the past five years, the survival rate has increased 21% to 25%.
According to the 2022 State of Lung Cancer Report, only 26% of lung cancer cases are diagnosed at an early stage when the five-year survival rate is much higher (61%). Unfortunately, 44% of cases are not caught until a late stage when the survival rate is only 7%. Fortunately, the early diagnosis rate for lung cancer has increased by 17% over the past five years.

Racial disparities exist in lung cancer

People of colour who are diagnosed with lung cancer face worse outcomes compared to white Americans because they are less likely to be diagnosed early, less likely to receive surgical treatment, and more likely to not receive any treatment. Sadly, systemic issues contribute to health disparities, including for those facing lung cancer. More than half of the 31 million uninsured Americans are people of colour, and research is clear that having health coverage impacts people’s medical care and ultimately their health outcomes. Addressing racial disparities in healthcare coverage is critical to addressing racial disparities in lung cancer care.

Lung Cancer screening and research has the potential to save thousands of lives

Lung Cancer screening and research has the potential to save thousands of lives

Screening individuals at high risk has the potential to dramatically improve lung cancer survival rates by finding the disease at an earlier stage when it is more likely to be curable. Early detection by low-dose CT screening can decrease mortality by up to 20%. In addition to screening with low-dose CT scans annually, researchers continue to develop new drugs and treatments that can improve survival.

"Lung Cancer can happen to anyone, and they shouldn't let a doctor discount them because of their age."

I was diagnosed with Stage IV lung cancer at age 33, I encourage everyone to speak up for themselves, especially if a doctor discounts their symptoms. What you should say is, ‘If another patient presented with these symptoms, what would your differential diagnosis be? And how have you ruled it out in me?’ And if the only quantifier is age, you can say ‘Take age out of it.’ Because Lung Cancer does not discriminate.”
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Hi, I'm Dr. YolaOLO

Medical Doctor, Lung Cancer Patient & Advocate

The name “DrYolaOLO” perfectly blends my personal identity with a powerful life philosophy.“DrYola” comes from my middle name, Yolande, making it a true reflection of who I am. Adding “OLO” plays off the  famous “YOLO” – You Only Live Once.

It’s all about living life to the fullest and being the best you can be in everything you do.“DrYolaOLO” is a mix of personal authenticity and a dynamic, optimistic outlook, encouraging everyone to shine their brightest in everything they do.

You might have seen me on

Helpful Lung Cancer Organizations

HEAL Collaborative

Go2 foundation for Lung Cancer

Lungevity - Transforming Lung Cancer

Lung Cancer Foundation of America

ADVOCACY QUICK TIPS

Here's how you can advocate for yourself

While these quick tips are helpful there are various ways to advocate for yourself. by viewing and visiting my resource page you will receive even more information on research, support groups and summits for Lung Cancer Patient.

ADVOCACY QUICK TIPS

Here's how you can advocate for yourself

While these quick tips are helpful there are various ways to advocate for yourself. by viewing and visiting my resource page you will receive even more information on research, support groups and summits for Lung Cancer Patient.

Ask Questions

Some patients & caregivers may become worried that they don’t have enough information — especially with a disease that might leave you with questions — while others might feel overwhelmed.

Here a few key questions you can ask:

  • What type of lung cancer do I have, and has it spread? If yes, how far has it spread?
  • How can I prevent or manage my symptoms?
  • Should I avoid or seek out certain physical activities?
  • What is the goal of my lung cancer treatment and what are my options?
  • How should I prepare for treatment?
  • What are the side effects of different treatment methods?
  • What support services are available to me financially and emotionally?

Choose Your Doctor Carefully

Your relationship with your doctor will be a crucial one. You want to make sure you trust your care team and feel comfortable discussing your concerns, thoughts and needs with them.

Here are a few key guidelines for picking the right doctor for you:

  • Research doctors who specialize in your specific diagnosis.
  • Confirm the doctor will accept your insurance.
  • Find out about the doctor’s education and credentials, also learn about the doctor’s support staff to see who will be available to you and be active in your care.
  • Learn how to contact the doctor in case of emergencies at night and on weekends.
  • See any services/resources the healthcare system provides for patients.

Ask for Help From Loved Ones

You can't navigate a cancer diagnosis and treatment alone.
Your loved ones will want to be there for you, and sometimes you might need to ask them for guidance and assistance.
Make sure you communicate exactly what you need to avoid any conflict or miscommunication.

Learn About Your Diagnosis

You can advocate for yourself by taking the time to understand what's happening to your body. You can also take steps to learn about your prognosis so you can make the necessary plans.

JOIN ME ON INSTAGRAM

@DRYOLAOLO

I love Instagram, but I don’t just share highlights. If you are looking for a dose of inspiration, thought provoking facts and a good chuckle now and then, then come and follow along my journey of authentic empowerment and constructive advocacy.

On both sides of
the Stethoscope.

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