Low-Dose CT Scan
Beacon offers a low-dose computerized tomography (LDCT) scan to detect lung cancer in its early stages. Lung cancer often does not present symptoms until it is advanced, which makes it difficult to treat and gives it a very poor prognosis. The American Lung Association and the Journal of the American Medical Association estimate that there are currently 14.2 million Americans meeting the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force guidelines to be screened for lung cancer. Annually, however, only about 6% of these people take advantage of this early detection tool.
Eligibility
The United States Preventive Services Task Force outlines the following eligibility guidelines for lung cancer screenings:
- Between 50-80 years old
- Smoked 20 or more “pack years,” i.e. one pack per day for 20 years, or two packs per day for 10 years, etc.
- A current smoker
- Quit within last 15 years
If you fit this profile, talk to your primary care provider about lung cancer screening.
What happens in a screening?
A lung cancer screening is done with a simple and non-invasive test called low-dose CT scan, which looks for nodules in the lungs. If a nodule is discovered during screening, your provider may refer your case to our multidisciplinary Lung Nodule Clinic. There, Beacon specialists and a dedicated lung nodule navigator will review your case and recommend a personalized action plan, which may include further evaluation with a follow-up CT scan or a biopsy.
Biopsy options
If a biopsy is needed our team of experts will meet with you to find the right approach. Beacon uses cutting-edge technology, including minimally invasive robotic bronchoscopy (with our Monarch® Robotic Bronchoscopy system), which allows tissue sampling of small nodules even in hard-to-reach areas of the lung.
What if cancer is found?
Should the diagnosis of your biopsy determine the nodule is cancerous, you will work with the Thoracic Oncology Clinic. This group includes multi-disciplinary providers from:
- Medical Oncology
- Radiation Oncology
- Cardiothoracic Surgery
- Primary care
- Pulmonology
If you do need to undergo cancer treatment, a Navigator will guide you through the process, answering any questions you have and helping you understand the treatment plan as it unfolds.
Schedule an Appointment
If you would like to schedule a low-dose CT scan lung cancer screening, talk to your primary care provider. It is required to have an order from your provider before you can schedule a screening. If you do not have a provider, find one near you.
