Lung cancer is the number one cancer killer in America. With over 155,000 deaths per year, lung cancer kills more people than breast, colon and prostate cancer combined. Lung cancer can be highly curable when found early, but it has been historically difficult to detect, that is until now.
Research shows that screening using a low-dose CT scan can help detect early lung cancer before clinical signs or symptoms become evident. Early stage cancers can be more easily treated and more frequently cured than later stage cancers. Screening for lung cancer is not a one time test, but a process that involves a periodic evaluation of your lungs over time to look for newly emerging cancer. The capability of CT scanners to detect tiny lung nodules and to compare the nodules for changes in size over time is critical to the screening process.
Who is eligible for this screening?
Anyone 50 years of age or older with a history of smoking, secondhand tobacco smoke exposure or exposure to occupational or environmental cancer causing substances.
You are not eligible for this screening exam if you:
- Have had a chest CT within the past 12 months
- Have a history of pulmonary fibrosis
- Have a history of cancer (except non-melanoma skin cancer) unless disease-free for five years
How much does this screening cost?
The fee for a Lung Cancer Screening is $199 for an individual, or $299 per couple. This fee is all-inclusive and includes the CT scan, interpretation by a board-certified radiologist and review of the results by a board-certified pulmonologist (lung specialist).
Lung Cancer Screenings are available in Austell, Douglasville, East Cobb, Hiram, Marietta and Woodstock. To schedule yours, call 770-956-STAR (7827).