Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the United States, but when caught early, it’s also one of the most treatable. Thanks to advances in imaging technology, low-dose CT scans (LDCT) can detect lung cancer before symptoms appear, giving you the best chance for successful treatment.
If you’re wondering if you should have a lung cancer screening, here’s what the latest guidelines recommend.
Who Should Have a Lung Cancer Screening?
According to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), lung cancer screening is recommended for adults who meet all of the following criteria:
- Age: Between 50 and 80 years old
- Smoking history: Have a 20 pack-year or greater smoking history (equivalent to smoking one pack per day for 20 years, or two packs per day for 10 years)
- Currently smoke or quit within the past 15 years
If you meet these criteria, your healthcare provider may recommend an annual low-dose CT scan to check for signs of lung cancer.
Why Early Detection Matters
Lung cancer often doesn’t cause noticeable symptoms until it’s in an advanced stage. Screenings detect small nodules or abnormalities in the lungs long before symptoms develop.
Early detection can:
- Improve treatment options and outcomes
- Increase survival rates
- Reduce the risk of advanced disease at diagnosis
In fact, studies show that screening can reduce lung cancer deaths by up to 20% in high-risk individuals compared to standard chest X-rays.
What to Expect During a Lung Cancer Screening
A low-dose CT scan is:
- Fast: The scan usually takes less than 10 minutes.
- Painless: It’s noninvasive and requires no needles or contrast dye.
- Low radiation: Uses about one-fifth of the radiation dose of a regular CT scan.
After your scan, a radiologist reviews the images to identify any abnormalities. Your provider will discuss the results and next steps, which may include follow-up imaging or a referral for additional evaluation if anything suspicious is found.
Who Should Not Be Screened
Lung cancer screening isn’t recommended for everyone. You may not need annual screening if you:
- Stopped smoking more than 15 years ago
- Have serious health problems that limit life expectancy
- Are unable or unwilling to undergo curative lung surgery if cancer is detected
Always discuss your personal health history with your doctor to determine if screening is right for you.
Protecting Your Lung Health
Even if you don’t meet the screening criteria, there are ways to reduce your risk:
- Don’t smoke, or quit if you currently do.
- Avoid exposure to secondhand smoke and environmental toxins, such as radon or asbestos.
- Maintain a healthy diet and active lifestyle.
Your provider can also help you create a personalized plan to support lung health.
Schedule a Lung Cancer Screening
If you’re between 50 and 80 years old and have a history of smoking, talk to your healthcare provider about 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!
