Should You Get A Lung Screening?
If you smoke now or used to smoke, you may be at higher risk for lung cancer, even if you feel healthy and have no symptoms.
That’s why understanding your risk and getting screened early can be so important.
Take the First Step Today
Download the Risk Assessment Tool to see if you should talk to your medical provider about getting a lung screening.
It is simple and only takes a few minutes.
Knowing the results of your scan can feel like a breath of fresh air. A lung screening can give you answers, peace of mind, and the chance to take action early if needed.
When lung cancer is found early, there is more hope.
Need good news?
A quick lung screening can help detect lung cancer early, before it spreads and becomes harder to treat. Early detection gives people more treatment options and a better chance of survival.
Treatments for lung cancer have improved a lot in recent years. More people are surviving lung cancer today than ever before. Many people continue living full lives after a lung cancer diagnosis, especially when it is found early through screening.
What Is a Lung Screening?
A lung screening uses a low-dose CT (LDCT) scan to detect early signs of lung cancer. The scan is fast and painless.
A quick, low-dose CT scan can find small spots in the lungs early, when treatment may be easier and more successful.
In North Carolina, only 1 out of 5 people at high risk for lung cancer get screened. That means too many people are missing the chance to catch lung cancer early, when it may be easier to treat.
Taking a few minutes to get screened could save your life.
You May Qualify If You:
- Are between 50 and 80 years old
- Smoke now or quit within the last 15 years
- Have a history of smoking regularly over time
Worried About Cost?
Many insurance plans, including Medicare Part B, cover yearly lung cancer screenings for eligible individuals.
Free or low-cost screening programs may also be available for uninsured or underinsured patients.
Talk To Your Provider
Don’t Wait for Symptoms
Lung cancer often does not cause symptoms in its early stages. That’s why screening is so important for people at high risk.
A few minutes today could help you determine if you should get screened for lung cancer and potentially catch it earlier, when treatment options are most effective.
Download the quick Risk Assessment Tool to see if you should get a lung screening.
We’re Here to Help
Lung Cancer Initiative is dedicated to advancing survivorship and providing support to those affected by lung cancer. You do not have to figure this out alone.
How to Talk to Your Doctor About Lung Screenings
Be Open and Honest
Discuss Your Family History
Ask Questions
- I’ve been reading about lung cancer screening. Do you think it’s appropriate for me to get screened?
- I don’t meet the usual criteria, but I’m worried because of (symptoms/exposure, etc). Can you help me understand my options?
- Can I have a referral?
General Resources
American Lung Association
American College of Radiology’s Lung Cancer Screening Locator
This tool helps you find lung screening centers near you. You can contact the screening center directly to ask about payment options or financial assistance programs.