When was the last time you actually thought about your lungs? Most people don’t take the time to think about it until they’re having trouble breathing.
That’s why Healthy Lung Month was created.
The origins of Healthy Lung Month focused on diseases such as tuberculosis, flu, and other airborne ailments that have been around for a long time. Now, smoking and lung cancer have been taking center stage, as lung cancer is the second most common form of cancer in both men and women according to the American Cancer Society. This is why lung cancer screenings have become the strongest prevention tool in the fight against lung cancer.
What is a lung cancer screening?
A lung cancer screening is a non-invasive test that uses a low-dose lung CT scan to detect abnormalities in the lungs. It’s primarily recommended for those who are at high risk of developing lung cancer, such as long-term smokers, individuals over 50, and people with a family history of lung cancer. The scan allows our AMIC providers to identify signs of cancer at its earliest stages, often before a person experiences any symptoms.
Early detection is key when it comes to cancer treatment. Without screening, lung cancer is often diagnosed too late, when the disease has already advanced and become harder to treat.
Benefits of Early Detection
The primary benefit of a low-dose lung CT screening is early detection. Lung cancer caught at an early stage is much more treatable and has significantly better survival rates than lung cancer that has progressed. Studies from the National Lung Screening Trial have shown that screening high-risk individuals can reduce mortality by up to 20%, thanks to the ability to treat cancer while it is still localized.
When lung cancer is detected early, it may be possible to treat it with less aggressive methods, such as surgery or localized treatments. This leads to fewer side effects and a quicker recovery, allowing patients to return to their normal lives more quickly.
Who Should Get Screened?
So, who should consider a lung cancer screening? Guidelines from organizations like the American Cancer Society recommend screening for individuals who meet the following criteria:
- Are between 50 and 80 years old
- Have a 20-pack-year smoking history (smoking one pack a day for 20 years or two packs a day for 10 years)
- Currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years
If these apply to you, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider about whether screening is right for you. They can help assess your risk factors and determine if you would benefit from a low-dose CT scan.
Don’t put it off any longer. today. Visit our website to request a consultation. Future you will be grateful you did!
