Lung cancer is one of the most serious health concerns today, and its impact is profound, yet it is also a largely preventable and treatable condition when detected early.
Screening plays a vital role to identify lung cancer at its most treatable stages, and to understand the importance and process of this screening can make a significant difference in outcomes.
Why screen for lung cancer?
Screening for lung cancer is crucial because it can detect the disease before symptoms appear, which can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment.
According to Henry Ford Health, lung cancer often doesn’t show symptoms until it’s in a more advanced stage. Early detection through screening can catch it early when it’s more treatable. This proactive approach helps to manage the disease effectively, especially in high-risk individuals.
“By catching the disease in earlier stages, those five-year survival rates jump to 75%. Many of these patients are cured,” said Dr. Avi Cohen, a pulmonologist at Henry Ford Health.
Lung cancer screening is recommended for those at elevated risk. This includes those who:
- Are between the ages of 50 and 77.
- Have smoked what equals at least one pack a day for 20 years or more. This might mean someone who smoked two packs a day for 10 years.
- Are a current smoker or have quit smoking within the last 15 years.
- Are high risk and have not had a chest CT scan within the last year.
Those who do not meet the above guidelines do not qualify for the screening. However, if you have a history of smoking or are regularly exposed to certain environmental risks, you should discuss with your doctor whether you should undergo lung cancer screening.
What to expect from a low-dose CT scan
The primary method for lung cancer screening is a low dose computed tomography (CT) scan. This advanced imaging technique provides detailed pictures of the lungs using a lower amount of radiation than standard CT scans.
A low-dose CT scan is a fast and non-invasive procedure that can detect small abnormalities in the lungs. The scan is typically performed annually for those who meet the screening criteria.
“Yearly low-dose CT scans are so important for those who are eligible,” said Dr. Samir Parikh, a radiologist at Henry Ford Health. “The whole idea is to detect lung cancer early because it is a silent disease. By the time you’re experiencing symptoms, most of the time it’s too late. The earlier lung cancer is caught, the higher the survival rate.”
During the procedure, patients lie on a table that slides into the CT machine. The scan itself is quick -- often completed in just a few minutes -- and involves minimal discomfort. It’s essential to follow any pre-scan instructions provided by the health care provider, such as avoiding certain foods or activities.
“I talk to patients right away after their scan, so they don’t have to wait for the results and they know what their next steps are,” Parikh said. “If I find a nodule that’s 6 to 8 millimeters long, we schedule follow-up appointments and more tests right then and there. If I find a nodule that’s less than three millimeters long, we schedule a follow-up appointment in six months to a year.”
If the screening shows no abnormalities, doctors will recommend high-risk patients continue to get screened yearly for as long as necessary.
Parikh said along with the low-dose CT scan, patients must also begin counseling to quit smoking.
“Among all of the cancers, lung cancer is the deadliest,” says Dr. Parikh. “Early detection through yearly low-dose CT scans and smoking cessation could change this.”
Taking action
Screening is a proactive step to manage lung health, but it’s only one part of the puzzle. Regular check-ups, healthy lifestyle choices and ensuring you stay informed about your health risks are all essential components of effective lung cancer prevention and care.
Cohen said his message to everyone is: Don’t smoke. And to those who smoke: Quit. Avoid secondhand and thirdhand smoke as much as possible.
“Smoking is the most significant risk factor for the development of lung cancer, and it’s also the culprit of other conditions,” Cohen said.
If you are at elevated risk, don’t hesitate to discuss lung cancer screening with your health care provider to determine the best course of action for you.
If you stay informed and participate in regular screenings, you can catch lung cancer early and improve your chances for successful treatment.
While Henry Ford Health typically offers appointments during the week, the health system recognizes National Lung Cancer Screening Awareness Day and will have appointments available Saturday, Nov. 9, as well.
For more information on lung cancer screening and to see if you qualify, visit Henry Ford Health’s Lung Cancer Screening page.
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