EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) -- Rhode Island earned high rankings in the American Lung Association's "State of Lung Cancer" report.

The American Lung Association's annual report examines rates of new cases, survival, early diagnosis, surgical treatment, lack of treatment, screening and insurance coverage for lung cancer by state.

The state ranked first nationwide for early diagnosis at nearly 35%, according to the report. Rhode Island was also first for screening with annual low-dose CT scans for high-risk patients.

"Lung cancer is preventable," R.I. Health Director Jerry Larkin said. "Not smoking is the single most important thing people can do to prevent lung cancer. Help is available day and night if you are ready to quit."

Rhode Island ranked second for its lung cancer survival rate, with more than 35% living five years post diagnosis. The state is also in the top five for treating with surgery during the early stages at 25%, which is almost 5% higher than the national average.

"Lung cancer screening with CT scanning saves lives by detecting cancer at the early stages of the disease when it's more likely to be cured and treatments may be less invasive," said Dr. Terrance Healey, director of chest imaging at Rhode Island Hospital and Rhode Island Medical Imaging. "Rhode Island now leads the nation in lung cancer screening rates, which will have a direct impact on increasing early detection and saving lives."

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in Rhode Island, according to the Health Department. The American Cancer Society estimates that 440 Rhode Islanders will die of lung cancer this year, and that 960 will be diagnosed.