LSU Health New Orleans, an LCRC member institution, has been awarded a $2.3 million five-year grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). This funding will support important research led by Dr. Tung Sung Tseng, an LCRC member and faculty member at LSU’s School of Public Health.

The study will focus on finding the best ways to combine lung cancer screenings with programs that help people quit smoking, specifically targeting African American communities. Lung cancer is a major health issue in Louisiana, being the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the state—accounting for nearly two-thirds of all cancer fatalities.

Dr. Tseng previously received research funding from the LCRC. Pilot funding is crucial for generating preliminary data, as it allows researchers to test innovative ideas and gather essential insights that can shape larger studies. This initial support not only enhances the feasibility of proposed projects but also increases the likelihood of securing additional funding for comprehensive research efforts.

The research project is titled "Effectiveness of a Multilevel Integrated Intervention for Lung Cancer Screening and Smoking Cessation among African Americans." It aims to create a better-combined approach to screening for lung cancer and helping individuals quit smoking, thus addressing this serious health challenge in the African American community.

Lung cancer screenings are done using a method called low-dose computed tomography, which is a quick and painless scan that generates detailed images of the lungs with minimal radiation exposure. Unfortunately, health statistics show that Black individuals diagnosed with lung cancer face significant challenges, including lower chances of early diagnosis, fewer surgical treatments, and a reduced survival rate compared to white patients.

Dr. Tseng's research plans to implement a comprehensive strategy involving lung cancer screenings and smoking cessation programs to encourage more people to participate in these life-saving efforts. This initiative aligns with the goals of the National Cancer Institute and the LSU LCMC Health Cancer Center, furthering our understanding of the unique needs of African American communities regarding lung cancer and smoking cessation.

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