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Lung Cancer Screening
Lung cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in the United States and the leading cause of cancer death in both men and women. Often, lung cancer does not cause any symptoms until the disease is in advanced stages.
Screening
Current and former heavy smokers can now be screened effectively for lung cancer. Results from the National Lung Screening Trial (NLST) revealed screening with low-dose CT reduces death by 20 percent. High Risk patients in the trial were screened annually for three years.
Who should get a low-dose CT screening for lung cancer?
Holy Family Memorial will offer self-referred lung cancer screening to high-risk individuals between the ages of 55-74 years with 30 or more pack-years of cigarette smoking. Pack-years is determined by multiplying the number of packs per day by number of years smoking.
The following are equivalent to a 30-year pack-year:
- 2 pack per day for 15 years
- 1 pack per day for 30 years
- ½ pack per day for 60 years
Former smokers who meet the criteria and have quit within the past 15 years are eligible for the screening. Lung cancer screening with low-dose CT is not appropriate for all smokers. If you are not eligible but are concerned about lung cancer, please speak to your primary care provider.
Radiation exposure
Our CT screening uses low-dose radiation in order to produce images of the lungs. Cumulative radiation exposure, even in low doses can damage cells, which may result in cancer later in life; however the risk of developing a radiation-induced cancer is extremely low. We utilize the latest technology to reduce radiation exposure to the lowest possible level while at the same time obtaining the highest quality images.
In Manitowoc County, lung cancer strikes approximately 60 people annually based on information from the National Cancer Institute state cancer profiles.
The results of research published less than a year ago in the New England Journal of Medicine shows the benefit of using low-dose CT scanning to screen high-risk patients for early lung cancer. Twenty percent fewer deaths were reported in the study group that underwent low-dose CT versus the control group that did not.
Thomas Keller, MD, Radiologist with Lakeshore Radiology Associates, told us, “Holy Family Memorial is proud to be the first and only location in Manitowoc County to offer low-dose scanning CT, to detect lung cancer in it’s early and most curable stage.
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920.320.6777 to schedule your appointment
Do I need an order?
You do not need an order from your primary care provider if you meet the high risk criteria. You may call our Central Scheduling department at 920.320.6777 to schedule. Staff is available to help you between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Will my insurance cover a lung cancer screen?
Most insurance plans do not cover this procedure, therefore, payment (cash, check, or credit card) will be requested at the time of screening.
How should I prepare for my scan?
Arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled time to allow for registration and payment. If you wear clothing with no buttons, zippers or metal, you will not have to change. Female patients will be asked to remove their bra. Please remove all necklaces before coming for your appointment.
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