The Pederzoli Hospital, located in Peschiera del Garda, has recently received an important recognition from Agenas, officially becoming a Regional Reference Center for lung cancer treatment in Veneto. This achievement marks a significant step in the fight against thoracic and pulmonary tumors and confirms the hospital’s commitment to providing specialized care to patients.
The Lung Unit and the Specialized Team
At the heart of this new initiative is the Lung Unit, directed by Dr. Antonio Santo. This unit has been designed as an innovative model for the diagnosis and treatment of thoracic diseases. It brings together various operational units, including pneumology, thoracic surgery, and thoracic oncology, creating a synergistic network with other specialties such as pathology and radiology.
Patients with suspected tumors undergo a rapid assessment by expert oncological pulmonologists. Thanks to the role of the ‘case manager,’ each patient receives comprehensive management of their diagnostic and therapeutic journey from the very first visit.
Significant Numbers and Growing Trend
In 2023, the Lung Unit welcomed over 360 new patients, showing a steady increase in 2024. Currently, about 27 individuals per day utilize the services offered by the unit, with one-third undergoing follow-up visits and two-thirds engaged in treatments such as chemo-immunotherapy or targeted biological therapies. These therapeutic methods have proven to significantly improve survival prospects even in the most severe cases.
Efficient Diagnostic Approach
The Lung Unit stands out for its organization, ensuring rapid and effective diagnoses. Requests for initial visits or second opinions are typically addressed within five working days. Additionally, a comprehensive patient care process is ensured through the opening of the Amid file and continuous monitoring throughout the diagnostic journey.
The department applies guidelines validated by the Lung Unit’s technical-scientific committee, utilizing the latest data available in medical literature to optimize treatments.
An Attractive Center Beyond Regional Borders
Interestingly, about 30% of patients come from outside Veneto. Dr. Antonio Santo emphasizes the importance of seeking specialized centers, even if they are far from one’s residence: “It is essential for individuals with suspected or confirmed lung cancer to consult reference centers with proven expertise.”
This approach is supported by strategic alliances between Fonicap (National Interdisciplinary Task Force Against Lung Cancer) and Lilt (Italian League Against Cancer), aimed at enhancing both primary and secondary preventive activities in the field of lung health.
Future Prospects
A proposal has recently been presented to the Ministry of Health to initiate a legislative process aimed at institutionalizing Lung Units in Italy. In this context, Pederzoli Hospital not only establishes itself as a pivotal point in the treatment of thoracic and pulmonary tumors but also lays the groundwork for future developments in the regional healthcare sector.
Thus, the recognition received by Pederzoli Hospital marks a new era in healthcare dedicated to lung cancers in Veneto, contributing to the improvement of the quality of life for patients suffering from these complex conditions.
Italian Version
