Know the Basics
Screening Lung CT uses low-dose X-ray pictures taken from multiple different angles around the body to create cross-sectional images that appear as “slices” of the lungs and surrounding structures. The examination can detect small lung cancers before they are visible on a regular chest X-ray, increasing treatment options and survival rates.
Lung cancer is responsible for 1 of every 3 cancer deaths and is the most common cause of cancer death in most populations. Low-Dose Chest CT (LDCT) Lung Cancer Screening can detect many small lung cancers before they are visible on a regular chest X-ray, increasing treatment options and survival rates.
What Are the Benefits?
A major study called the National Lung Screening Trial (NLST) recently showed a clear benefit for LDCT among heavy smokers who meet strict criteria. LDCT screening of this high-risk group of asymptomatic people resulted in a 20% reduction in death from lung cancer compared to people in a similar group who were screened with annual chest X-rays only.
Should I Get Screened?
Based on results from the National Lung Screening Trial (NLST), new national guidelines recommend an annual Screening Lung CT for:
- Smokers aged 55 to 77 years who have smoked for 30 pack-years or more (pack-year smoking history is calculated by multiplying the number of years you have smoked by the number of packs you smoke per day).
- Ex-smokers aged 55 to 77 years who quit smoking less than 15 years ago with a smoking history of 30 pack-years or more.
