Lung cancer has a bad reputation as the leading cause of cancer death among Americans. Lunch Cancer is the second most diagnosed cancer in both men and women and accounts for more than 30 percent of all cancer deaths, killing more than 150,000 Americans each year. A five year survival rate of less than 16 percent continues to be substantially lower than that seen for other major cancers such as breast, colon and prostate cancer, each at 90 percent or greater.
What’s worse is that lung cancer carries a negative connotation as a smokers’ disease, befalling people who often became chemically addicted to nicotine as adolescents by the voracious marketing of cigarettes and somehow “deserve” to have their bodies ravaged. Yet not all lung cancer is caused by smoking. Radon exposure in homes is the second-leading cause of lung cancer. Genetics also play a
role. For some cases of lung cancer, especially in young women, the cause is never identified. Ongoing research by the Lung Association and others may help to identify these causes.
For over 100 years, the American Lung Association has been a champion for those affected by lung disease. The American Lung Association is well known and trusted by the public, and well regarded for basing its prevention, education and advocacy actions on good science. Today the American Lung Association is a nationwide leader in increasing visibility and awareness of lung cancer.
Turning the Tide on Lung Cancer
No one should die from lung cancer. Fortunately, new research provides some much-needed hope in the fight against lung cancer. Results of the National Lung Screening Trial (NLST) released in August of 2011 showed that screening with low-dose spiral computed tomography (CT) scans compared to chest X-ray reduced lung cancer deaths among older heavy smokers by 20 percent. Improved detection at earlier stages, when lung cancer is much more easily treated, is key to increased survival.
The report provides a comprehensive review of the available evidence on both the benefits and risks of lung cancer screening, as well as highlights areas where more research is needed. Experts acknowledge that cancer screening is associated with both benefits and risks and, unfortunately, the NLST could not answer a number of questions on the advantages and safety of screening in the general population. In spite of this, the Lung Association hopes its recommendations will guide the public on this very important personal and public health issue, and will be invaluable to the tens of millions of people at risk for lung cancer.
Lung Cancer Screening: Is It Right for Me?
Screening for cancer means testing for cancer before there are any symptoms. Now there is a test that can reduce death from lung cancer through early detection. The test is not recommended for everyone and it has risks as well as benefits. Here is a discussion to help you decide.
Q: Am I a candidate for lung cancer screening?
A: If you are:
• a current or former smoker
• and in the age group from 55 to 74 years
• and with a smoking history of at least 30 pack – years (this means 1 pack a day for 30 years, 2 packs a day for 15 years, etc.)
You are in the group at highest risk for lung cancer and screening for lung cancer is recommended for you.
Q: Should I get a CT scan to screen for lung cancer?
A: Talk to your own doctor about getting a CT scan to screen for lung cancer. Screening for lung cancer may save your life. Discuss your complete health history and ask for a clear explanation about the possible benefits and risk. There are some risks and not everyone should be screened for lung cancer. Only low-dose CT scans are recommended for screening. Chest X-rays are not recommended for lung cancer screening.
Q: What happens if I choose to get a CT scan for lung cancer?
A: There is some radiation risk with a CT scan and you may need to have additional tests and procedures. You should go to a hospital or screening center that has a team of experts who will clearly explain the procedure to you. The team should tell you about all the risks and benefits of the screening. They should also discuss what the results can mean and how they will follow up with you after the initial screening.
Q: What does it cost to have a CT scan for lung cancer?
A: The cost is usually $300 to $500. Health insurance companies and Medicare may not cover the cost for a CT scan to screen for lung cancer at this time. Be sure to check with your insurance plan to see what is covered. Ask your doctor and the facility doing the CT scan to carefully and clearly explain all costs that you may possibly be charged and not just the cost of the CT scan alone.
Q: What do the results mean?
A: A “suspicious” result means that the CT scan shows something is abnormal. This could mean lung cancer.
It could also mean some other condition. You may need to have additional procedures to find out exactly what is abnormal. If you do have lung cancer or some other condition, your doctor and the team of experts should discuss all possible treatment options with you. A “negative” result means that there were no abnormal findings at this time on this CT scan. It does not mean you absolutely do not have lung cancer. It does not mean that you will never get lung cancer. Your doctor should discuss when and if you should be tested again.
Remember: The best way to prevent lung cancer is to never smoke or to stop smoking now. If you are still smoking, talk to your doctor about ways to help you quit smoking.
Q: Where can I get more information about lung cancer and lung cancer screening?
A: If you would like more information or have any questions concerning lung cancer screening, please call Advanced Imaging at 941-235-4646. Our experienced physicians and friendly team are available to answer any questions your might have.