When should you get a lung scan?

A lung scan is a quick, noninvasive test that could be lifesaving. Doctors often recommend these screenings for people with a history of smoking and high risk of lung cancer.

At Aurora Health Care, we offer you convenient and timely access to the health screenings you need. After a lung scan, we aim to get you prompt answers so you have peace of mind or can start treatment immediately.

What is a lung cancer screening?

A lung cancer screening is a test that checks for early signs of lung cancer. These screenings are low-dose CT (LDCT) scans, a type of imaging test.

LDCT scans can spot small growths (nodules) in your lungs that could point to cancer, often before you even experience symptoms. When you find lung cancer in these early stages, the chances of curing it are much higher.

Who should be screened for lung cancer?

Lung cancer screenings aren’t right for everybody – and you’ll need a doctor’s order to get screened. Your doctor typically only recommends them for people with a high risk of lung cancer. You are considered high risk if you:

• Are 50 to 77 years old
• Are a current smoker with a smoking history of at least 20 pack-years (e.g., one pack per day for 20 years, two packs per day for 10 years, etc.)
• Are a former smoker with at least a 20 pack-year smoking history who has quit within the last 15 years

Who should not be screened for lung cancer?

People with a low or average risk of lung cancer don’t need regular lung cancer screenings. Research hasn’t shown any benefits of lung cancer screenings for these groups.

How can I lower my risk of lung cancer if I’m not a candidate for screening?

Even if you’re not at high risk for lung cancer, you should still take some steps to lower your risk of the disease. Doctors recommend that you:

• Avoid secondhand smoke
• Quit smoking or don’t start
• Wear protective equipment if you’re regularly exposed to hazardous material
• Test your home for radon, an odorless gas that can increase your lung cancer risk, and work with a radon contractor to remove it if found

If you need help quitting smoking, talk to your doctor or learn about our online smoking cessation classes. A program designed to help you quit can make the process easier. You can also contact the American Lung Association at 800-LUNGUSA for more information.

Learn more & schedule a lung cancer screening

Get started with a lung cancer screening by scheduling an appointment with your primary care provider. You’ll discuss risk factors and determine if a lung screening is right for you.

If you have questions about lung cancer screening, call us at 800-252-2990.