Adults with a history of smoking can greatly benefit from the low dose
CT lung screening program available at any of our Valley Health hospitals.
We have a team of professionals who are trained to expertly evaluate,
diagnose, and treat abnormal lung lesions that may appear in a low dose
lung CT scan.
Who Benefits from a Low Dose CT Screening for Lung Cancer?
Essentially, adults with a history of smoking are most likely to benefit
from this screening. Healthy adults or adults with only a few years of
smoking will probably not benefit from the procedure.
Consider a low dose lung CT screening if you meet the following:
Individuals between the ages of 50-80
Individuals with a 20 pack-year smoking history
Individuals who are currently smoking or quit within the past 15 years
Individuals who are willing to repeat the screening until it no longer applies
As a clarification, a 20 pack-year smoking history can be determined a
few different ways. It can be equated as one pack per day for 20 years,
two packs per day for 10 years, or a half pack per day for 40 years. Those
with fewer pack-years of smoking will not necessarily benefit from the
screening.
Are There Any Disadvantages to Being Screened?
The downsides to undergoing a low dose lung CT scan are few; however, participants
will undergo a small amount of radiation exposure. Any abnormal test results
that are found could cause anxiety. Along the same line, a false positive
result could require additional imaging and a biopsy. Any findings outside
the lung could also require further investigation.
Will Insurance Pay for the Screening?
If criteria for a low dose lung CT screening are met, Medicare and most
insurance plans will pay for yearly screenings. Financial assistance may
be available for individuals who meet screening criteria but do not have
insurance to cover low dose lung CT screening.
If you meet the criteria or want to learn more, ask your doctor about low
dose lung CT screening or call the lung navigator toll-free at
844-532-8669.
Quitting Smoking
The best way to reduce your lung cancer risk is not to smoke. When you’re
ready, Valley Health can help you quit for
FREE. No matter where you live in the northern Shenandoah Valley and the surrounding
region, when you’re ready to quit smoking Valley Health can provide
the education, tools and support you need to succeed. Classes are held
regularly at convenient locations across the region. (Due to COVID-19,
no group clinics are scheduled at this time.) Visit
valleyhealthlink.com/QuitSmoking for class details and registration information.
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