Should I get a lung screening?
You know regular breast, prostate, or colorectal screenings are important to make sure you’re healthy – so are lung cancer screenings!
Good news, quitting smoking at any age can lower your risk of lung cancer, and regular lung cancer screening can catch lung cancer in the earliest, treatable stages. It saves lives.
A low-dose CT scan for lung cancer is recommended if you answer yes to either of the following statements:
I am 50 to 80 years old and have currently or formerly smoked for 20 years or more.
OR
I am 50 to 80 years old, formerly smoked, and quit in the past 15 years.
What is a low-dose CT scan?
A low-dose CT scan is an X-ray with a very low dose of radiation. Images taken by the scan are combined to provide a detailed picture of your lungs.
Like many screening tests, there are pros and cons to consider. With low-dose CT scans, there is a chance of a “false alarm”. This means results look like cancer but are not, and may lead to more tests.
If you are at high risk, it is important to get screened. If you smoke, the best thing you can do is quit.
What will this cost?
Lung cancer CT screening exams for eligible individuals are covered by most insurance programs, including Medicare/Medicaid. Contact your insurance plan for coverage details such as deductibles and co-pays.
What’s next?
Visit your healthcare provider to talk about lung cancer screening. Get a clear explanation of the possible benefits and risks.
Ask your healthcare provider for a referral to a screening center. Talk to your doctor about lung cancer screening. Consider asking:
- Am I eligible?
- What are the benefits and risks?
- Please refer me to a screening center.
