The Cancer That Kills More Women Than Breast And Ovarian Combined Gets A New Tool

LeadershipForbesWomenThe Cancer That Kills More Women Than Breast And Ovarian Combined Gets A New ToolByGeri Stengel,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Geri Stengel writes about the success factors of women entrepreneurs. Follow AuthorAug 21, 2026, 06:55am EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.SummaryLung cancer is a critical women's health crisis, projected to kill more American women than breast, ovarian, and cervical cancers combined in 2026, despite receiving less funding and attention. The disease increasingly impacts non-smoking women, and current screening methods often detect small lung nodules that lack precise, minimally invasive treatment options. Houston-based Prana Surgical, led by CEO Joanna Nathan, has introduced the FDA-cleared Prana System, dubbed "the lumpectomy of the lung." This innovative device uses CT-guided targeting and radiofrequency energy to precisely excise suspicious nodules in a single, minimally invasive procedure, preserving lung function. Nathan, driven by personal tragedy, aims to revolutionize early lung cancer detection and treatment, addressing a significant gap in care and advocating for greater urgency and funding for women's lung health.Show More A physician reviews lung imaging with a patient — a conversation happening more often as lung cancer screening programs find more small pulmonary nodules, and more women face the question of what minimally invasive lung surgery options exist for them.gettyLung cancer will kill an estimated 61,950 American women in 2026—taking as many lives as breast, ovarian, and cervical cancers combined. Despite that toll, it has never had its lumpectomy moment. The surgical toolkit for small lung nodules has changed little in decades, leaving patients caught between two bad options: an imprecise needle biopsy or a surgery that can permanently reduce...