What is low dose ct lung cancer screening

We know early detection is one of the best defenses against cancer. Lung cancer screening is a painless, non-invasive procedure we offer to detect lung cancer in people who don't have symptoms. Lung cancer is the number one cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. By the time symptoms appear, cancer has likely spread and is more difficult to treat. When lung cancer is found early, treatments can lead to remission and recovery.

Take a Lung Health Assessment

Stop lung cancer in its tracks.

If you are a smoker or a former smoker, a simple screening could save your life. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the U.S. and 85% of cases occur in cigarette smokers. Studies show that lung CT scans using low doses of radiation can effectively detect lung cancer in its earliest stages and most importantly, lower your risk of dying from lung cancer.

A physician referral (order) is required for this exam. 

• A low-dose lung screening is capable of detecting very small but potentially cancerous cells at the earliest stages, which may allow for the least invasive treatment options.
• Screening can aid in reducing the risk of dying from lung cancer by 80%.**

What is LDCT lung cancer screening?

LDCT (low-dose computed tomography) works much like an x-ray exam to produce pictures of your chest and lungs. This high-quality lung screening detects lung abnormalities but with 90 percent less ionizing radiation than a conventional CT scan. If you have a high risk of lung cancer but no signs or symptoms, a LDCT screening could help you catch potentially cancerous spots at their earliest and most treatable stage.

You are considered high risk if you are:

• Between the ages of 55 and 77
• Have a smoking history of 30 pack years (1 pack per day for 30 years)
• Currently a smoker or have quit in the last 15 years

Initial Consultation and CT Scan
If you would like to undergo a LDCT lung screening, the first step is an appointment with your primary care provider. This appointment will be a time to discuss your age, smoking history and other factors in order for your physician to determine if you are eligible for screening. If you are eligible, your primary care provider will schedule your low-dose lung CT scan.

What happens next?

Your medical provider will call you soon after your screening to explain your results and discuss any additional necessary medical care. If the CT scan were to detect any potentially cancerous nodules, another screening may be needed after a few months to monitor your lungs’ conditions. Regardless of your results, annual screenings are recommended, as yearly low-dose CT scans have been shown to decrease mortality in patients who had increased risk due to smoking.

Is Screening Covered By My Insurance?
Medicare now covers the cost of low-dose CT screening for high risk patients. Many private health insurers provide coverage as well. Your physician will give you more specific details about eligibility and costs during your consultation.

Remember… A LDCT screening can detect lung cancer in its earliest stages, but it cannot prevent or cure disease. The only way to stop cancer before it starts is to stop smoking. If you think you may be ready to quit, talk to your primary care provider for guidance and helpful tips.

Schedule Your Low Dose Lung Cancer CT Scan. Contact the Central Scheduling Department at 575.521.5270 (a physician's order is required).

What is a Low Dose CT scan?

The Low Dose Computerized Tomography Scan (Low Dose CT) is a very detailed screening used to identify lung cancers or abnormalities with a much higher resolution than a regular scan. A Low Dose CT scan rotates in a spiral motion, continuously taking several images of the lungs. This scan can reveal abnormalities in the lungs that may be as small as grain of rice, while a traditional x-ray would not be able to show the tumour until it is much larger. 

Risk Factors for Lung Cancer

Smoking causes the majority of lung cancer. But lung cancer also occurs in people who never smoked and in those who never had prolonged exposure to second-hand smoke. In these cases, there may be no clear cause of lung cancer.

Who should be screened for lung cancer?

The American Cancer Society recommends annual lung cancer screening with a low-dose CT scan for apparently healthy patients aged 55 to 74 years who have at least a 30–pack‐year smoking history (who have smoked at least one pack of cigarettes per day for 30 years or two packs a day for 15 years) and who currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years.

Screening is also recommended for people who have been exposed to toxic substances and environmental pollution including cigarettes smoke, asbestos, radon, arsenic, radiation, and other chemicals.

Why Choose Low Dose CT Screening at FV Hospital?

Low Dose CT scan makes it possible for doctors to detect even the smallest lesions in the lungs, as well as tumours that would normally be too small for a traditional x-ray to identify. The smaller the tumour is when it is detected, the less likely the cancer cells have spread to other parts of the body. Early detection means more treatment options and a higher chance of survival. Additionally, a low dose CT scan takes considerably less time  than a traditional CT, and is less harmful to patients due to the low dose of radiation.

For more information, please contact:

IMAGING DEPARTMENT

FV Hospital, Ground Floor, F Building

Tel: (028) 54 11 34 00