Most of us are familiar with screening for breast cancer and colon cancer. But many are not familiar with screening for lung cancer. Unfortunately, lung cancer is among the more common types of cancer. Lung cancer is the third most common type of cancer and the leading cause of cancer death in the US.
The United States Preventive Task Force has approved screening for lung cancer with low-dose CT scans. Anyone who has smoked over 20 pack years, is 50-80 years of age, and was a smoker within the last 15 years is a candidate. Once the decision to screen has been made, the screening should take place every year (smoking one pack a day for 20 years is 20 pack years, smoking two packs a day for ten years is 20 pack years, smoking four packs a day for five years is 20 pack years). To determine pack years, multiply the number of packs smoked a day by the number of years smoked.
The decision to begin screening is complicated and requires a detailed discussion with a primary care physician. It is very common and expected that patients screened will have positive findings in as many as 50 % of scans. The most common finding will be pulmonary nodules of various sizes. Pulmonary nodules are small round densities that show up on CT scans or x-rays. These nodules have a variety of appearances and characteristics. If pulmonary nodules are present, the radiologist will likely recommend a different screening interval to be sure the nodules are followed, and those with cancer potential are evaluated early. Though pulmonary nodules are common, about 95% are benign.
According to guidelines, Medicare requires the physician to discuss the need for treatment before beginning the Lung Cancer Screening protocol.
The earlier lung cancer is detected, the better the chance of cure. The hope is that wider screening will lead to more cures for lung cancer. One of the most important things a person can do to reduce the risk of lung cancer is not to become a smoker or to quit if they are one.
If you are a smoker, please discuss this with your doctor if you are ready to quit. Once you decide, there are medications that might be helpful.