It’s always a good idea to be on top of your personal health.

Hundreds of thousands of people are diagnosed with lung cancer every year. In Nebraska, some doctors are expecting to see 300 new cases this year alone.

Dr. Aparkishor Ganti, a hematologist with Nebraska Medicine, says on average, he sees about 20 to 25 new lung cancer patients each week. He says most of his patients are former smokers who are just now seeing the effects it has on the body.

Most people who develop lung cancer are smokers or people who have quit in the last 15 years. Dr. Ganti says even non-smokers can develop lung cancer. He says family history and environmental factors like radon in Nebraska and Western Iowa can can also cause the disease.

“Don’t neglect any symptom that has been going on for a while, even if it’s a simple cough that has been persistent” said Dr. Ganti. “It’s worthwhile getting that tested.”

And despite the harmful effects of smoking, Dr. Ganti says it’s never too late to quit. The doctor says people between the ages of 55 and 74 who have smoked for at least 30 years need to get screened. Those who have quit in the past 15 years should also get screened.