The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2005 -
- 172,570 people will be diagnosed with lung cancer.
- 163,510 people will die from lung cancer.
More than one-in-four of all diagnosed cancers involve the lung, and lung cancer remains the most common cancer-related cause of death among American men and women.
Cancer itself typically develops over a period of many years, and if detected at an early enough stage can be eliminated by a variety of treatments. The earlier a malignancy is detected, the greater the chance it has not spread to distant sites.
CT Scan of lung shows abnormal masses proven to be lung cancer
The Exam
Most likely, you are familiar with CT Scans. You might have even had one before. When used for Lung Cancer Screening, the protocol employs a reduced radiation dose to image the entire chest. The exam takes about 25 seconds and is performed during one breath-hold. No intravenous X-ray dye is used. The results of your test are read by one of our board certified radiologists and a report mailed directly to you and any physician you request.
Biopsy needle entering abnormal lung mass
Who Should Undergo Lung Cancer Screening?
The easy answer is anyone who is concerned about the possibility of lung cancer; however, certain people are clearly at higher risk than others. The primary risk factor is a history of cigarette smoking. In studies performed to evaluate this procedure, patients who smoked the equivalent of one pack of cigarettes per day for 10 years were evaluated. For example, if you smoked two packs per day for 5 years, this would equal a "ten pack year history".
Results
Your exam will be read by a board certified radiologist to ensure accuracy in detection of abnormal findings. If your exam is read as negative, it means there were NO suspicious areas seen. If an abnormal area is seen, you may be asked to see a lung specialist. Further evaluation might include a standard Chest CT Scan including the administration of X-ray dye and additional thinner slices through suspicious areas.
- Highest level of patient care and comfort
- ALL exams interpreted independently by Board Certified radiologists
- Performed on state-of-the-art Helical Scanners
- Exams maintained permanently in the SMH digital archive
- Affiliation with local lung specialists
Private insurance or Medicare may pay for this test if you have a history of shortness of breath or cough. Otherwise, you may be responsible for the cost of this exam. Please check with your insurance provider.
