If you are a current or former smoker, you should talk to your doctor about whether lung cancer screening is right for you. Lung cancer can be detected using a screening test called Low-Dose CT scan (LDCT). It has the potential to detect lung cancer at earlier stages when it has the best chance of being cured.
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death and the second most common cancer among both men and women in the United States, according to the Center for Disease Control. Each year, approximately 160,000 Americans lose their lives to lung cancer.
Annual lung cancer screening by Low-Dose CT in those that qualify has been proven to reduce the chances of dying from lung cancer by 20 percent and is recommended for men and women who meet the following criteria:
- A current smoker or have quit smoking within the past 15 years
- Have a tobacco smoking history of 30+ pack years (1 pack per day for 30 years or 2 packs per day for 15 years)
- Between the ages of 55-77*
- Have no lung cancer symptoms such as a cough, shortness of breath or chest pain and no major medical issues that would prevent having a cancer work-up and treatments if discovered during screening
*Some private insurance covers ages 55-80. Please check your plan for coverage.
How can I get screened?
Talk to your doctor about your risk for lung cancer and discuss the risks and benefits of being screened. If you are eligible for lung screening, your doctor can refer you for an exam.
To find a doctor or schedule an appointment, visit Steward DoctorFinder™.
