State of Lung Cancer: New Report Reveals Tennessee Among Worst in Nation in Lung Cancer Rates

Today, the American Lung Association released its 2024 “State of Lung Cancer” report, which examines key indicators to highlight how the toll of lung cancer varies by state. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths here in Tennessee and across the U.S.

This year’s report found that Tennessee ranked 46 out of 49 in the nation for new lung cancer rates. The report also found that Asian or Pacific Islander individuals in Tennessee are least likely to be diagnosed early.

The report found that Tennessee ranked:

• 46 out of 49 in the nation for rate of new lung cancer cases at 68.5 per 100,000. The national rate is 53.6 per 100,000.
• 38 out of 47 in the nation for survival at 25.0%. The national rate of people alive five years after a lung cancer diagnosis is 28.4%.
• 36 out of 47 in the nation for early diagnosis at 25.9%. Nationally, only 27.4% of cases are diagnosed at an early stage when the survival rate is much higher.
• 41 out of 51 in the nation for lung cancer screening at 13.0%. Lung cancer screening with annual low-dose CT scans for those at high risk can reduce the lung cancer death rate by up to 20%. Nationally, only 16% of those at high risk were screened.
• 35 out of 47 in the nation for surgery at 17.4%. Lung cancer can often be treated with surgery if it is diagnosed at an early stage and has not spread. Nationally, 20.7% of cases underwent surgery.
• 11 out of 47 in the nation for lack of treatment at 17.5%. Nationally, 20.9% of cases receive no treatment.

“Lung cancer is a devastating disease and impacts far too many families in Tennessee. To address the burden of lung cancer and to help improve the lives of people it impacts, we must continue to evaluate the greatest needs. This report helps us prioritize which areas to focus on to truly make an impact,” said Shannon Baker, Director of Advocacy for the American Lung Association. “This year’s ‘State of Lung Cancer’ report shows that Tennessee must focus on improved screening and early detection. Together, we can make a difference.”

Overall, the “State of Lung Cancer” report reveals positive news. Nationally, the lung cancer survival rate has improved 26 percent in the last five years due to increased awareness and advancements in detection and treatment.

New this year, “State of Lung Cancer” examines health insurance coverage requirements of comprehensive biomarker testing across the U.S. Lung cancer biomarker testing sometimes referred to as tumor, molecular, genomic or genetic testing, looks for changes in the tumor's DNA. The results of the test may show biomarkers that can help determine what treatment options would be best for an individual patient. Insurance coverage of biomarker testing is important for removing a cost barrier to people with lung cancer, but coverage for biomarker testing is only required in some states. Tennessee should pass legislation requiring insurance coverage of comprehensive biomarker testing.

The 2024 “State of Lung Cancer” report highlights opportunities for states and the federal government to reduce the burden of lung cancer and encourages everyone to help end lung cancer. This year, the American Lung Association calls for the state to implement policies to require Insurance coverage of comprehensive biomarker testing. The Lung Association also calls on Congress to pass the Increasing Access to Lung Cancer Screening Act (H.R. 4286).