CT LUNG CANCER SCREENING
Lung cancer is lung cancer is the third most common cancer in the United States, according to the CMS, and most cases occur with no warning symptoms.
Computed Tomography (CT) Lung Screening is one of the simplest screening exams available today. It’s quick and easy, completely painless and involves a minimal amount of radiation exposure.
In addition, there are numerous resources available to support patients whose CT lung screens indicate cancer. These include a local nodule program that assembles top-notch patient care teams made up of nurse navigators, radiologists, thoracic surgeons, oncologists and pulmonologists—all working together to deliver the best possible patient care and outcomes.
You may wish to pursue CT Lung Screening if you:
- Have completed a shared decision-making visit with your provider to determine if you meet the eligibility requirements
- Are between 50 and 77 years old
- Currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years
- Have, at minimum, a 20 pack-year smoking history (i.e., one pack a day for 20 years, two packs per day for 10 years, and so on) Pack Years Calculator
- Are asymptomatic (without signs or symptoms of lung cancer such as fever, chest pain, shortness of breath, unintended weight loss, changing cough, hemoptysis (coughing up of blood).
If you and your physician determine that you may benefit from CT lung screening, the next steps are simple. Download this information sheet to learn more about the process by clicking here.
If you do not qualify for a CT lung screen, your provider may still choose to order a diagnostic CT exam. There is no cost difference between the two.
