EDDY MOBILE CANCER SCRENNING UNIT BRINGS BENEFITS TO BOTH JAMESTOWN COMMUNITY & FIREFIGHTERS
JAMESTOWN, NEW YORK – July 30, 2024 – The City of Jamestown is excited to announce the arrival of Eddy – Early Detection Driven to You – a groundbreaking mobile lung cancer screening unit brought to you by the Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center. Eddy is designed to increase accessibility to early cancer detection throughout New York State.
Eddy aims to address a critical gap in lung cancer screening, as only 6% of eligible individuals in New York State have undergone this life-saving test. Despite the proven benefits of early detection through low-dose CT scans, many individuals who would benefit from screening are not receiving it, often resulting in diagnoses at more advanced and challenging stages.
Eddy’s Impact:
Outfitted with state-of-the-art technology funded by New York State, Eddy is dedicated to bringing comprehensive lung cancer screening services directly to communities, focusing on medically underserved and racially diverse populations. Early detection is vital, given that lung cancer causes 22% of all cancer deaths – more than breast, prostate, and pancreatic cancers combined. The screening allows for the identification of 70% of lung cancers at an early stage, significantly improving treatment outcomes.
Eligibility for Lung Cancer Screening:
- A history of cancer of the lung, esophagus, head, or neck (excluding thyroid cancer) — or —
- Age 50 to 79
- A 20-pack-year smoking history
- Smoked within the past 15 years
What to Expect from Screening:
- Painless: The CT scan is quick, requiring only a few seconds of breath-holding.
- Quick: The scan itself takes just 30 seconds.
- Safe: Utilizes significantly less radiation than traditional X-rays.
- Easy: Simply lie down and relax during the scan.
The Jamestown Fire Department spearheaded Eddy’s visit to Jamestown, motivated by the significant respiratory health risks encountered by firefighters and emergency responders. These professionals face increased exposure to hazardous substances such as carbon monoxide, benzene, and asbestos in the line of duty. Regular lung function tests and screenings are essential for detecting early warning signs and maintaining their health.
“Our firefighters are vital to the safety and well-being of our community, risking their lives daily to protect others. Their health and safety are of utmost importance, and providing them with access to early cancer screenings underscores our commitment to supporting their needs. By ensuring their health is monitored and maintained, we reinforce our dedication to their safety and the safety of the entire Jamestown community”, said Mayor Kimberly Ecklund. “This collaboration has been developing for a while, and I am thrilled that we have successfully united to bring these vital screenings and services to our firefighters and the Jamestown community.”
The partnership between Roswell Park, the Jamestown Fire Department, and the City of Jamestown highlights the critical importance of early lung cancer screening and demonstrates a shared commitment to improving public health. This collaboration ensures that essential screening services are brought directly to the Jamestown community, addressing the urgent need for accessible cancer detection and supporting the well-being of both our firefighters and residents. A second tentative visit of the Eddy unit to Jamestown is slated for October of this year. Stay tuned for additional details as this date approaches.
For more information about the Eddy Mobile Cancer Screening Unit, to see if you qualify for a screening, or to learn more about the program, please visit: https://www.roswellpark.org/eddy
About Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center:
Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center is a leader in cancer research and treatment, dedicated to providing innovative care and improving patient outcomes through early detection and advanced technology.
