Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the United States. It is estimated that in 2025, nearly 125,000 people will die from lung cancer, and more than 226,000 people will be diagnosed with lung cancer.
Early detection is key in treating lung cancer. Unfortunately, this type of cancer does not always show symptoms until its later stages. The American Cancer Society reports that more people die of lung cancer than breast, colon and prostate cancers combined. That’s why for smokers, a lung cancer screening can be a lifesaving tool for at-risk individuals.
What is lung cancer screening?
To screen for lung cancer, a computerized tomography (CT) scan is used. A 2011 study called the National Lung Screening Trial (NLST), sponsored by the National Cancer Institute, demonstrated that when compared to chest x-rays, CT scans reduced lung cancer deaths among 55- to 74-year-old current or former heavy smokers by 20 percent.
While these screenings have been covered by insurance since 2011, only three to four percent of people who are potentially eligible for these scans have received them.
The Power of Early Detection
At Brown University Health, we are committed to educating our community about the importance of early detection and screening, which can significantly improve survival rates. If you or a loved one may be at risk, we encourage you to speak with your primary care provider or contact our Lung Cancer Screening Clinic.
Who should have a lung cancer screening?
Early screening is especially important for those most at risk for developing lung cancer. Low-dose CT screening is recommended for people who:
- are current or former smokers
- are 55 to 74 years old
- smoke or have smoked one pack of cigarettes a day for 20 years or more
While an abnormal or positive screen does not mean a patient has cancer, there could be other conditions that warrant treatment. For those who do have cancer, early detection before symptoms appear is critical to successful lung cancer treatment.
If you fit the criteria for lung cancer screening, please contact the Brown University Health Cancer Institute at 1-844-222-2881.
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