FARGO – This year’s “State of Lung Cancer” report reveals mixed news for North Dakota, which ranks 27th nationally for new lung cancer cases, according to the American Lung Association.

The report examines key indicators highlighting how the toll of lung cancer varies by state. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in North Dakota and across the United States.

Here’s how North Dakota ranked in key categories:

– 27 out of 49 in the nation for rate of new lung cancer cases at 56.1 per 100,000. The national rate is 53.6 per 100,000.

– 21 out of 47 in the nation for survival at 28.4%. The national rate of people alive five years after a lung cancer diagnosis is 28.4%.

– 8 out of 47 in the nation for early diagnosis at 30.3%. Nationally, only 27.4% of cases are diagnosed at an early stage when the survival rate is much higher.

– 12 out of 51 in the nation for lung cancer screening at 19.2%. Lung cancer screening with annual low-dose CT scans for those at high risk can reduce the lung cancer death rate by up to 20%. Nationally, only 16% of those at high risk were screened.

– 36 out of 47 in the nation for surgery at 17.2%. Lung cancer can often be treated with surgery if it is diagnosed at an early stage and has not spread. Nationally, 20.7% of cases underwent surgery.

– 3 out of 47 in the nation for lack of treatment at 14.3%. Nationally, 20.9% of cases receive no treatment.

The report also found that Indigenous people in North Dakota are most likely to be diagnosed with lung cancer.

Overall, the “State of Lung Cancer” report reveals positive news, the American Lung Association noted in a news release. Nationally, the lung cancer survival rate has improved 26% in the last five years due to increased awareness and advancements in detection and treatment.

Findings in the report state North Dakota must focus on increasing access to lung cancer screening, early detection initiatives and biomarker testing to save lives. It also presents opportunities for North Dakota to further improve survival by increasing access to lung cancer screenings.

“Lung cancer is a devastating disease and impacts far too many families in North Dakota. To address the burden of lung cancer and to help improve the lives of people it impacts, we must continue to evaluate the greatest needs,” said Pat McKone, senior director of Advocacy for the American Lung Association. “The ‘State of Lung Cancer’ report helps us prioritize which areas to focus on to truly make an impact because together, we can make a difference.”