A new option for lung cancer screening
According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths for both men and women in the U.S.
About 1 in 4 cancer deaths are from lung cancer, which can afflict smokers and non-smokers alike. Early detection and screening can have a significant effect on the outcome of treatment. For this reason, the ACS recommends lung cancer screening with a low-dose CT scan for those who qualify.
Do I Qualify?
Lung cancer screening isn’t right for everyone. You are eligible for a lung cancer screening if you meet these criteria:
- Adults aged 50-80.
- Current smokers or former smokers, who have a 20 pack per year smoking history and currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years.
- The NLST found that smokers in this age group are most likely to benefit from screening.
Why Should I be Screened?
The goal of lung cancer screening is to detect lung cancer at an early stage and before it has spread. Treatment can then be provided which may reduce the likelihood of dying from lung cancer. However, screening does not prevent the development of lung cancer. The best way to reduce the risk of lung cancer is to not start smoking cigarettes, to quit if you do smoke, and to avoid secondhand smoke.
The only recommended screening test for lung cancer is low-dose computed tomography (also called a low-dose CT scan or LDCT). In this test, an X-ray machine scans the body and uses low doses of radiation to make detailed pictures of the lungs. Studies utilizing a CT lung screening showed a 20 percent reduction in deaths from lung cancer than those screened by chest X-ray.
What is the cost?
Lung cancer screening is covered by Medicare for patients 55-77 years old and most commercial insurance plans cover it for patients 55-80 years old. Typically, there is no out-of-pocket cost for low-dose CT lung screening, but confirm with your health insurance provider.
Talk to your doctor about your risk for lung cancer and whether a screening test is right for you.
If you and your doctor determine that a screening is appropriate, and you meet the eligibility requirements, ask your doctor to schedule a lung cancer screening at McLaren Lapeer Region by calling (810) 667-5990.