All Your Lung Screening Questions Answered

In a world where we’re constantly reminded to stay on top of our health—

“When was your last Pap smear?”

“Have you had your mammogram?”

“It’s time to start regular colonoscopies.”

“Have you had your annual skin check?”

—many people don’t realize that lung screening even exists.

That’s a big gap, especially since lung screening can increase the 5-year survival rate of lung cancer by nearly 55% (American Lung Association, State of Lung Cancer report).

We’re here to answer your most common questions and make lung screening easier to understand.

 

What is a lung screening?

A lung screening is a low-dose computed tomography scan, often called a low-dose CT. It’s a quick, non-invasive scan that takes about a minute to complete. The scan produces detailed, high-resolution images of the lungs, allowing healthcare providers to detect abnormalities early, when treatment is often more effective.

Who qualifies for a lung screening?

You may qualify for lung screening if you:

•     Are between the ages of 50 and 80 

•     Currently smoke or quit within the past 15 years 

•     Have a 20 pack-year smoking history 

Healthcare providers typically recommend screening for individuals who meet these criteria because research shows they benefit the most. If you qualify, one low-dose CT scan per year is recommended.

What is “pack year history”? How do I calculate that?

Great question! A pack-year is a way to measure how much someone has smoked over time. You can calculate it using this formula:

(Number of cigarettes smoked per day ÷ 20) × number of years smoked

For example:

•     1 pack per day for 20 years = 20 pack-years 

•     2 packs per day for 10 years = 20 pack-years

Is lung screening covered by insurance? What about Medicaid or Medicare?

In most cases, yes. Annual lung  screening is typically covered by private insurance plans for individuals who meet the eligibility criteria (ages 50–80, 20 pack-year history, and current or recent smoking history). Medicare and Medicaid also generally cover lung screening for those who qualify.

What if I am uninsured?

If you’re uninsured, there are still options. Many communities offer lung screening programs for individuals without insurance. Availability varies by location, but support is out there. You can reach out to screening@lungcancerinitiative.org for help finding programs near you.

Talk to your doctor to find out if lung screening is right for you.