Lung Cancer Screening Program
At Southcoast Health, we offer lung cancer screenings to increase your chances of early detection and treatment. We offer low-dose CT scans (LDCT), a screening test covered by most insurances, for patients with a high risk of developing lung cancer. We are committed to responsible lung cancer screening and prevention services for all members of the community.
Can Lung Cancer Be Found Early?
Lung Cancer Screening allows your provider to test and find disease that may not yet cause symptoms. Southcoast Health utilizes a test known as a low-dose CT scan (LDCT) for people at a higher risk of getting lung cancer. LDCT scans can help find abnormal areas in the lungs that are linked to cancer. The use of LDCT scans to screen people at higher risk of lung cancer has been shown to save lives. For higher-risk people, getting yearly LDCT scans before symptoms start reduces the risk of dying from lung cancer.
Reasons to Screen – High-Risk Factors
Smoking is the leading risk factor for lung cancer. Eighty percent of lung cancer deaths are attributed to smoking. If you are currently smoking or have smoked within the last 15 years, you have a higher risk of developing lung cancer.
When to Talk to Your Provider about Lung Cancer Screening
In order to undergo a screening exam, you must meet the following criteria:
- Age 50-80
- Smoking history of equal to or greater than 20 pack-years
- If an ex-smoker and quit within the last 15 years
- No chest CT exam within the past year
