Vaya, Tobacco Cessation, and Lung Cancer Awareness Month

November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month. Lung cancer awareness is critical for all of us—not just those who smoke. According to the Lung Cancer Research Foundation, one in 16 people will be diagnosed with lung cancer in their lifetime. Lung cancer affects people with and without a history of smoking, and Vaya Health is here to support lung health with resources, information, and programs to help you make informed decisions—including Vaya Total Care’s Quit For Life® program for Medicaid members.

Early Detection: Your First Line of Defense

Early screening can make a significant difference in the fight against lung cancer. A low-dose CT scan (LDCT), the recommended screening method, is a simple and effective way to catch lung cancer early when treatment is more likely to be successful. Vaya Health’s Vaya Total Care plan covers this screening for members who meet the screening criteria, talk to your doctor to see if you need this screening.  

The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends yearly lung cancer screening with LDCT for people who:

• Have a 20 pack-year or more smoking history, and
• Smoke now or have quit within the past 15 years, and
• Are between 50 and 80 years old.

Lung Cancer: Not Just a Smoker’s Disease

While smoking is a leading cause, many cases arise in people who never smoked or quit years ago. Lung cancer can develop in anyone, regardless of their smoking history. Factors like air pollution, family history, and exposure to certain chemicals can all contribute. By raising awareness about these risks, we encourage more people to prioritize their lung health.

Ready to Quit? We’re Here for You

For those who use tobacco and are considering quitting, Vaya offers supportive programs tailored to your needs. With the Quit For Life program, Medicaid members of Vaya Total Care can access resources that go beyond standard quit-smoking programs.

• Nicotine Replacement Therapy and Coaching: Members have access to nicotine replacement therapies (like patches or gum) at no cost, as well as one-on-one coaching sessions to help them create personalized quit plans.
• Customized Support: Each member receives a quit plan designed around their unique needs, with three one-on-one coaching calls, two group sessions, and 24/7 chat support. This proven, structured program has helped millions achieve their goal of becoming tobacco-free.

Ready to get started? Call the Quit For Lifeline at 1-866-427-6845   and take the first steps toward quitting.

QuitlineNC: Help for All North Carolinians

For those without Medicaid or NC Medicaid Direct, QuitlineNC provides free services for anyone in North Carolina looking to quit commercial tobacco. Call 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669) anytime, day or night, for coaching, counseling, and support in multiple languages.

Great American Smokeout

Quitting smoking isn’t easy – join the American Cancer Society’s Great American Smokeout on November 19 to start your journey toward a smoke-free life.

Vaya is committed to supporting your lung health every step of the way. Whether it’s through early screening, education, or tobacco cessation support, we’re here to help you take control of your health and reduce your risk of lung cancer.