(Story courtesy Piedmont Augusta)
November marks Lung Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Piedmont Augusta is spotlighting its commitment to early detection and innovation with two powerful tools in the fight against lung cancer: Low-Dose CT (LDCT) screening and a new minimally invasive robotic-assisted lung biopsy.
LDCT screening is a quick, non-invasive test proven to reduce lung cancer mortality by up to 20% compared to traditional X-rays. It is recommended for high-risk individuals, including those aged 50–77 with a history of heavy smoking. Early detection through LDCT can significantly improve survival rates by identifying cancer before symptoms appear. Since launching its lung cancer screening program in May 2025, Piedmont Augusta has completed 862 screenings, identifying 21 high-risk results that required further investigation.
In a major advancement, Piedmont Augusta now offers robotic-assisted bronchoscopy using the Ion endoluminal system. This cutting-edge technology allows physicians to navigate deep into the lungs with unprecedented precision, accessing tissue that previously required more invasive procedures. The system’s ultra-thin catheter and 3D mapping capabilities enable safer, faster biopsies of peripheral lung nodules. Over 100 robotic assisted bronchoscopies have been performed at Piedmont Augusta since spring of 2025.
“This procedure allows pulmonologists to reach peripheral airways in the lungs, enabling them to detect lung cancer at an earlier stage when it is easier to treat and potentially cure,” said Dr. Jason Henry, board-certified pulmonologist. “Timely intervention is critical in lung cancer, and this technology helps us deliver answers quickly and safely.”
These advanced technologies are currently being used by the physicians at Piedmont Physicians Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine Augusta, who recently added Augusta Lung Associates. This practice features seven board-certified physicians: Dr. Alfred Brannen, Dr. Sebastian Circo, Dr. A. Philip Forys, Dr.Varsha Kulkarni, Dr. Donald H. Loebel, Jr., Dr. Scott Pethke and Henry.
“We’re proud to bring expert lung care with rapid access and advanced technology right here in the CSRA,” said Dr. Lily Henson, Piedmont Augusta Hub’s chief executive officer. “The investment in these technologies demonstrates our commitment to saving lives through early detection and timely intervention.”
For more information or to see if you qualify for LDCT screening, contact your physician or visit piedmont.org.
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