CT Lung Cancer Screening Program
Lung cancer is by far the leading cause of cancer death among both men and women. Each year, more people die of lung cancer than of colon, breast, and prostate cancers combined. It is most treatable, however, when identified in the earliest stages. Early detection, which can lead to a better outcome, often starts with annual lung cancer CT screening.
What is screening?
Screening is looking for cancer before a person has any symptoms. This can help find cancer at an early stage. When abnormal tissue or cancer is found early, it may be easier to treat. By the time symptoms appear, cancer may have begun to spread.
Who should consider screening?
Based on a variety of studies, including the National Lung Screening Trial conducted by the National Cancer Institute, it is recommended that individuals at high risk for developing lung cancer consider annual screening with LDCT.
Anything that increases your chance of developing a disease is called a risk factor. Common risk factors for lung cancer include:
- Tobacco smoking (including cigar smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke)
- Personal or family history of lung cancer
- Air pollution
- Exposure to cancer-causing agents such as radon and asbestos
According to the American Cancer Society, you may qualify for a low-dose CT lung cancer screening if you meet the following criteria:
- Between the ages of 55 to 74 (age recommendations may vary among physicians)
- Are in fairly good health and not experiencing signs or symptoms of lung cancer
- Are a current smoker or a former smoker who has quit within the last 15 years
- Have a smoking history equivalent to one pack a day for 30 years
Talk with your physician if you have questions about lung cancer screening. If you qualify, you will need to provide documentation (referral) from your doctor in order to be screened.
If you are a current smoker and would like to quit, we encourage you to check out tips, tools, and support offered by organizations such as Smokefree and the American Lung Association.
CT Lung Cancer Screening Locations
Imaging Centers & Clinics
How is screening done?
A computed tomography (CT or CAT scan) is the diagnostic tool used for lung cancer screening. It is a test that uses a combination of X-rays and computer technology to create cross-sectional images (called slices) of the body. Chest CT scans are noninvasive and painless.
In lung cancer screening, individuals who have a high risk of developing lung cancer but no signs or symptoms of the disease undergo low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scanning of the chest. LDCT scans use less ionizing radiation than a conventional CT scan.
Sources:
- https://www.cancer.gov/types/lung
- https://www.cancer.org/cancer/non-small-cell-lung-cancer/about/key-statistics.html
- https://www.cancer.gov/types/lung/patient/lung-screening-pdq
- https://www.cancer.org/latest-news/new-lung-cancer-screening-guidelines-for-heavy-smokers.html
- https://www.cancer.org/cancer/lung-cancer/prevention-and-early-detection/risk-factors.html
- https://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?pg=screening-lung
- http://www.lung.org/stop-smoking/
- https://smokefree.gov/
Triad Radiology offers CT Lung Cancer Screening at a variety of locations, including hospitals, imaging centers, and clinics. Contact us if you want to learn more or schedule an appointment.
