Lung Cancer Screening
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends annual screenings for lung cancer for those at high risk.
Should I get screened?
If you are a current or former heavy smoker around the age of 55 or older, and have smoked a pack a day for at least 30 years (or 2 packs a day for 15 years) you may be a candidate for an annual lung cancer screening or Spiral CT Scan.What is a Spiral CT scan?
The scan is a low dose of radiation, similar to what you might be exposed to from a chest x-ray. The CT scan takes a 360-degree picture of the inside of the lungs while you hold your breath for 10 seconds.What you should know:
Like all screening tests, there are pros and cons to consider.
Pro:
Lung cancer screening can reduce the risk of dying from lung cancer by catching and treating it early.Con:
There is a chance of a “false alarm.” This means the result looks like a dangerous cancer but is not, and this leads to more tests that are not needed.Talk to your doctor
Your doctor will answer any questions you may have concerning the low-dose CT scan, and whether it’s right for you.Smoking is the number one risk factor for lung cancer and is linked to 90% of lung cancers.
Quitting smoking remains the single best way to reduce your risk of lung cancer. If you smoke, quit.
Having a tough time quitting?
Worried about weight gain?
Quitting smoking means a healthier you. Maintain your weight while quitting.
Slip-ups are normal
The most important thing to do? Learn from them and keep trying.
Chronic conditions, quitting helps
If you have heart disease, high blood pressure, emphysema, or other ailments, learn more about how quitting smoking can make a difference.
