Peter Jennings’ Death From Lung Cancer Reminds Us of the Importance of Early Cancer Diagnosis

NORTHFIELD, Ill., Aug. 8 /PRNewswire/ —

   What:    In 2005 more than 160,000 people will die from lung cancer.  The            announcement of ABC news anchorman Peter Jennings’ death from            lung cancer reminds us of the important role prevention and early            detection play in the fight against cancer.             Pathologists, physicians who diagnose diseases through laboratory            medicine, are uniquely qualified to explain how lung cancer is            detected, the role smoking plays in lung cancer and why            discussing possible symptoms as soon as they appear is vital for            successful treatment.    Who:     Gene N. Herbek, MD, FCAP Methodist Health System, Omaha, Neb.    Why:     While in his 20s, Dr. Herbek, a non-smoker, was diagnosed with            lung cancer through a routine chest x-ray.  He has since been an            advocate for lung health, working with local chapters of the            American Lung Society and American Cancer Society.  He is            available to explain the treatment options lung cancer patients            have and how early detection influences care.    

The College of American Pathologists is a medical society serving nearly 16,000 physician members and the laboratory community throughout the world. It is the world’s largest association composed exclusively of pathologists and is widely recognized as the leader in laboratory quality assurance. The CAP is an advocate for high quality and cost-effective patient care.

The College of American Pathologists

CONTACT: Anthony Phipps, +1-800-323-4040 ext. 7574, or Diane Simpson,+1-800-323-4040 ext. 7538, media@cap.org , both of The College of AmericanPathologists

Web site: http://www.cap.org/