Low dose CT lung screening.
Lung cancer found at an earlier stage, while it is small and before it has spread, gives people a better chance of living longer.
Symptoms of lung cancer are often mistaken for other problems, such as an infection or the effects of smoking, or sometimes don't appear until the disease is at an advanced, non-curable stage. Because CT lung screening can detect even very small nodules, it is especially effective at finding lung cancer at its earliest, most treatable stage.
Who should get a lung screening?
CT lung screening is for high risk people who:
- Are age 50 or older and currently smoke or have quit within the last 15 years
- Have a smoking history equivalent to 1 pack a day for 20 years
- Have experienced asbestos exposure or have obstructive airway disease
- Have a smoking history and additional risk factors such as radon exposure, occupational exposures, COPD or pulmonary fibrosis
- Are not experiencing symptoms related to lung cancer
Potential benefits
- Lung cancer is often found at an earlier stage
- Earlier diagnosis often allows less invasive treatment
- Risk of death for high risk patients is greatly reduced
- The exam is fast, painless and noninvasive
- Uses up to 90% less radiation than a conventional chest CT
- No radiation remains in the body and there are no immediate side effects
Potential risks
- False positive results, when a test appears abnormal but no cancer is found, which may require additional testing
- False negative results, when a test appears normal although cancer is present, which may delay care
- Detection and treatment of a cancer that may never have harmed you
- A small risk of cancer from low dose radiation exposure
- May not improve health or life expectancy if the disease is advanced or has spread
Smoking and lung cancer
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths among both men and women. Smoking contributes to 80% and 90% of lung cancer deaths in women and men, respectively, and secondhand smoke causes approximately 7,330 lung cancer deaths among nonsmokers every year.
There is no one right way to quit, but success usually means deciding to quit, setting a quit date and a plan, dealing with withdrawal, and staying tobacco free. Proven options include free telephone help, programs and support groups, support from family and friends, nicotine replacement therapy and prescription drugs.
Read the American Cancer Society's guide to quitting smoking
What you should know
What is a CT lung screening?
The exam detects lung cancer in its earliest stages, when it is most treatable. It is a low dose, non-contrast CT that scans the entire chest in about five to ten seconds during a single breath hold. The visit takes about 15 minutes.
What is needed to schedule a CT lung screening?
- Consult with a referring provider to determine if you qualify.
- A valid order is required to schedule the study.
Is CT lung screening covered by insurance?
Yes, Medicare and most health insurance plans cover the exam. Check with your plan for specific qualifying information. Qualified patients without insurance can pay the discounted self-pay price.
Prep for your exam
If you have an appointment scheduled, pre-register, complete forms and review prep instructions in Patient Pathway. Questions about your visit? Call (919) 877-5400.
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