Low Dose CT (LDCT) for Lung Cancer Screening
Lung Cancer is Preventable and Can Be Treatable
Early Detection is Key
Are you one of the thousands of Americans who is at risk for developing lung cancer? According to the American Cancer Society, lung cancer is the number one cause of cancer — more than colon, breast, and prostate cancers combined. When detected in its earliest stages, lung cancer can be treatable.
Lowell General Hospital offers Low Dose CT (Computed Tomography) screening for qualified patients that can help detect lung cancer early. In just minutes, this simple scan can detect nodules or spots on your lung that may be early indicators of lung cancer. It takes just minutes to have a scan that could potentially save your life.
What is Lung Cancer?
Lung Cancer is cancer that occurs in several kinds of cells in the lung. As with other cancers, lung cancer happens when abnormal cells grow out of control — either forming a tumor or spreading to other parts of the body. Studies have shown that 9 out of 10 lung cancers can be detected by screening before symptoms appear.
Low Dose CT (LDCT) Lung Cancer Screening Saves Lives
In 2015, The Center for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS) announced it would cover Low Dose CT (LDCT) lung cancer screening for its beneficiaries. In addition, under the Affordable Care Act, this service is now covered by many payers. Studies have confirmed that screening patients at high risk for lung cancer with a Low Dose CT was significantly more effective in detection than a standard chest X-ray.
Eligibility
Lung cancer screening is quick and easy. You may qualify for a low-dose CT lung cancer screening if you meet all of these criteria:
- Are between 55 and 77 years old
- Have no signs or symptoms of lung cancer
- Are a current smoker or have quit within the last 15 years
- Have smoked the equivalent of at least one pack a day for 30 years
- Do not have any general health/other exclusions
If you qualify, you will need an order from your physician to schedule your screening exam.
Physicians: Print out the Low Dose CT Lung Cancer Screening physician order form
How Do I Schedule a Lung Cancer Screening?
Make an appointment with your primary care physician to discuss potential benefits, limitations and possible risks of having a lung cancer screening scan. After reviewing and discussing the criteria, your physician will determine if you are a candidate for a lung cancer screening.
Your physician’s office may schedule the exam or you may call Lowell General Hospital at 978-937-6023 to schedule your screening.
If you have any questions related to our Lung Cancer Screening Program, please contact our Lung Cancer Screening Program Ambassador at 978-614-3202.
