Low Dose CT Screening
Call 502.316.5895What is a Low-Dose CT Screening?
Stop lung cancer in its tracks. If you are a smoker or a former smoker, a simple screening at Clark Regional Medical Center 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 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%.**
DCT (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.
Next Steps
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death among both men and women in the United States. Patient usually show no obvious signs of lung cancer unitl it is in a late stage, when it is difficult to treat. Lung cancer screening is used to detect lung cancer early, when it is more treatable. A low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scan is recommended for people at high risk for lung cancer.