Georgia health advocates eye cigarette taxes to combat lung cancer

November 21st, 2023

While lung cancer is the leading cause of U.S. cancer deaths, the survival rate has risen in the last five years nationally, according to an annual report from The American Lung Association. (American Lung Association photo) — While lung cancer is the leading cause of U.S. cancer deaths, the survival rate has risen in the last five years nationally, according to an annual report from The American Lung Association. (Courtesy of American Lung Association)

Lung cancer continues to be the leading cause of cancer deaths in Georgia, according to a new report, which also found the state’s lung cancer survival rate is below the national average.

To improve the survival rate, the 2023 American Lung Association in Georgia State of Lung Cancer report is pushing for increased access to lung cancer treatment and screenings statewide.

“Screening is huge, and early diagnosis is just really key to addressing the burden of lung cancer in Georgia,” said Danna Thompson, state advocacy director for the American Lung Association. “Early detection is key.”

Earlier this year, Georgia expanded coverage for lung cancer screenings through Medicaid.

Now, a coalition of health advocates, including the American Lung Association in Georgia and Johns Creek Democratic state Rep. Dr. Michelle Au, is again pushing to raise Georgia’s tobacco and cigarette taxes, currently the second-lowest in the United States at 37 cents per pack.

An increase would funnel more money into state coffers to help fund smoking prevention and cessation programs for adults and young people in Georgia.

Last year, a House bill that would have boosted the taxes failed to advance out of a legislature subcommittee.

The Lung Association report found early detection can identify lung cancer when it’s more treatable or curable, but many people at high risk for the disease go without screening in the United States and Georgia.

And, at 18%, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in Georgia are least likely than other groups to be diagnosed early, which is significantly lower than their rate across the country.

“This report really only underlines the need for Georgians to have access to quality and affordable health coverage,” Thompson said.

Georgia also ranks lower than the national average when it comes to lack of treatment, and access to surgery for lung cancer.

Cigarette smoking is a leading cause of preventable death and is also a risk factor for heart disease and stroke, as well as lung cancer.

The rate of cigarette smoking in the U.S. continues to fall, but electronic cigarette use is up among adults, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data.

In 2021, 4.5% of adults reported currently using e-cigarettes, with people aged 18–24 having the highest levels at 11%, according to the CDC.