What You Need to Know About Low-Dose Lung Cancer Screenings

Detecting Lung Cancer Early: What You Need to Know About Low-Dose CT Screenings

Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in the United States, but when caught early, it’s often treatable. That’s where low-dose computed tomography lung cancer screenings come in.

KCHS is proud to offer low-dose lung cancer screening services for eligible patients. These quick, painless scans can help detect lung cancer at its earliest and most treatable stages.

What Is a Low-Dose CT Screening?
A low-dose CT scan uses a small amount of radiation to take detailed images of your lungs. This allows providers to identify abnormal spots or nodules that may indicate lung cancer, long before symptoms begin.

The screening is especially important for people who are at higher risk for lung cancer, including:

•    Adults aged 50 to 77
•    Asymptomatic ( no signs or symptoms of lung cancer)
•    Current smokers or smokers who have quit in the last 15 years
•    Those with a history of heavy smoking (at least 20 pack-years or greater).  To calculate your pack years, take the number of packs of cigarettes smoked per day X Number of years smoked.  
o    For example, 1 pack per day for 20 years = 20 pack year history 
o     ½ pack per day for 40 years also = 20 pack year history.

Not sure if you qualify? Your provider can help you determine if a screening is right for you.

What to Expect During the Screening
The LDCT scan is:

•    Fast – The entire appointment usually takes less than 30 minutes.
•    Non-invasive – No needles or contrast dye are needed.
•    Painless – You simply lie still on a table as it passes through the CT scanner.
•    Low-radiation – The dose of radiation is significantly lower than a standard CT scan.

Preparation-You may be asked to remove jewelry and change into a gown
During the Scan- You’ll lie on a table that slides into the scanner.  The scanner will rotate around you.  You’ll likely be asked to hold your breath for a short period to ensure clear images.
Post-Scan-Images are reviewed by a radiologist and your provider will discuss the results with you

After the scan, a radiologist will review the images and send a report to your healthcare provider, who will then discuss the results with you and help determine any next steps if needed.

Do I Need a Provider’s Order?
Yes. A provider’s order is required for a low-dose lung cancer screening, so be sure to talk with your primary care provider or schedule an appointment to see if you’re eligible.

Why It Matters
Early-stage lung cancer often doesn’t cause symptoms. By the time symptoms appear, the disease is often more advanced and harder to treat. Low-dose screenings can detect cancer early—when treatment is most effective.

Talk to Your Provider Today
If you or a loved one may be at risk for lung cancer, don’t wait. Ask your provider if a low-dose lung cancer screening is right for you.

At KCHS, we’re committed to providing proactive care that helps you stay healthy—and that includes early detection.