Katherine’s Lung Cancer Early Detection and Survival Act of 2024

S 5367, the Katherine’s Lung Cancer Early Detection and Survival Act of 2024, requires private health insurance to cover lung cancer screenings without cost-sharing for all individuals aged 40 or older, regardless of smoking history. Currently, such coverage for lung cancer starts at age 55 only for heavy smokers, while screenings for breast, prostate, and colorectal cancers begin at age 40 with no smoking restrictions. The bill aims to improve early detection - critical since lung cancer has a 19% 5-year survival rate compared to 90-98% for other cancers when caught early - by aligning coverage age and eligibility with other major cancers. The changes would take effect for plan years beginning January 1, 2026.