If you live in Orleans County, you’ve probably heard about the high rate of lung cancer. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, but when it is found early, treatment is often more successful. That’s why annual low-dose CT (LDCT) screenings/scans are recommended for people at high risk.
A low-dose CT scan is a quick, painless imaging test that can detect lung cancer before symptoms develop. Unlike a standard chest X-ray, this specialized scan can identify very small abnormalities, giving patients the opportunity to begin treatment earlier, when it is most effective. It’s a procedure that the radiology department at Medina Memorial Hospital conducts frequently.
You may be eligible for an annual low-dose CT scan if you:
- Are between 50 and 80 years old
- Currently smoke or quit smoking within the past 15 years
- Have a 20 pack-year or greater smoking history (for example, one pack a day for 20 years)
The scan itself takes only a few minutes, requires no needles or contrast dye, and uses much less radiation than a traditional CT scan.
If you meet the screening guidelines, an annual low-dose CT scan could help detect lung cancer at an earlier, more treatable stage. Even if you feel healthy and have no symptoms, screening may be an important part of protecting your long-term health.
Talk with your primary care provider about your smoking history and whether a low-dose CT lung cancer screening is right for you. Early detection saves lives, and taking this simple step today could make a significant difference for your future.