Lung cancer screening saves lives.

For many years, there was no effective way to find lung cancer early, when it is easier to treat. Regular chest X-rays have been studied as a screening test for people at higher risk for lung cancer, but they haven't proven to help most people live longer.

Recently, however, a test known as a low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scan was approved as an effective screening tool. Research has shown that unlike chest x-rays, yearly LDCT scans to screen people at higher risk of lung cancer can save lives. For these people, getting yearly LDCT scans before symptoms start, has been shown to lower the risk of dying from lung cancer by as much as 20% compared to chest X-rays.

A chest X-ray is an imaging procedure that uses a very small amount of radiation, which quickly goes through your body in order to capture an internal 2-D image of your chest. A chest CT scan is a more detailed type of chest X-ray that compounds the power of X-rays and computers to deliver a 3-D view of your chest. This creates a clear view that shows the position, shape, and size of the organs in your chest. The screening CT scan is a relatively simple procedure. You will need to lie flat on the scanner table for less than 10 minutes.

The criteria for a low-dose CT scan are very specific. If you do not meet the eligibility criteria above, we encourage you to discuss your results and concerns with your primary care provider.

You should get screened if you:

• Between the ages of 50 and 80
• Still smoke or quit within the last 15 years
• Have a heavy smoking history
• Show no signs or symptoms of lung cancer, such as unexplained cough, shortness of breath, and unexplained weight loss (a doctor can determine if another condition is causing these symptoms)

The United States Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends that those that meet the criteria get screened every year. Some patients may be asked to come back sooner if a nodule is found.

While this is a safe procedure, the scan does have a few small risks. The amount of radiation used during this test is less than what we are exposed to annually from the sun and earth.

Most scans find lung nodules. The majority of these nodules are benign. Lung nodules can be an early sign of lung cancer. We'll need to biopsy the nodule to find out if it is cancerous.

The results of your lung cancer screening will be sent to the healthcare provider who ordered the exam.

Screenings are fully covered by Medicare and Medicaid if you meet the eligibility guidelines. With other insurance companies, the cost varies. Our lung cancer screening program team can help you. With the right information, you can contact your insurance and find out the exact price.