In the US, lung cancer is the second most common cancer
for both men and women.
Lung cancer is most successfully treated when found at an early stage.
Thank you to the Get Screened MN campaign partners:
Minnesota Oncology, RAYUS Radiology, American Cancer Society.
When Should You Start Screening?
The American Cancer Society recommends yearly LDCT lung cancer screening for certain people at higher risk for lung cancer who meet all of the following conditions¹:
- Are 50 to 77 years old and in fairly good health
- Currently smoke or have quit within the last 15 years
- Have at least a 20-pack-per-year smoking history
- Receive smoking cessation counseling if they are current smokers
- Have been informed about the benefits, limitations, and possible harm of early screening with LDCT scans
Lung Cancer Screening Options
Low-Dose CT Scan (LDCT)
Until recently, regular chest x-rays were used for lung cancer screening, but they did not have a significant impact on survival rates. However, new testing options, including low-dose CT scan (LDCT), can help find abnormal areas in the lungs that may be cancer. Research has shown that using LDCT scans to screen people at higher risk of lung cancer saved more lives compared to chest x-rays. For higher risk people, getting yearly LDCT scans before symptoms start may help lower their risk of dying from lung cancer.
The National Lung Screening Trial
The National Lung Screening Trial (NLST) was a large clinical trial that looked at using LDCT of the chest to screen for lung cancer. The study included more than 50,000 people ages 55 to 74 who were current or former smokers and were in fairly good health. The study did not include people who had a history of lung cancer or lung cancer symptoms or those with other serious medical problems.
After several years, the study found that people who got LDCT had a 20% lower chance of dying from lung cancer than those who got chest x-rays. They were also 7% less likely to die overall (from any cause) than those who got chest x-rays.
Where to Get Screened in Minnesota
RAYUS Radiology is a leading national subspecialty provider for advanced diagnostic and interventional radiology services
RAYUS Radiology is challenging the status quo by shining the light on radiology and recognizing it as a critical first step
in accurate diagnosis and proper treatment.
Treatment Options for Lung Cancer
Minnesota Oncology is the Twin Cities’ largest and most experienced cancer and blood disorder treatment provider. Our patients have access to a team of experienced cancer specialists, evidence-based treatment paths, 12 close-to-home locations, and comprehensive services to support the whole person. New patient consultations are available within 48 hours of your request. No referral necessary.
Sources:
- American Cancer Society, About Lung Cancer, 2020
- American Cancer Society, Early Detection, Diagnosis, and Staging, 2020
- American Cancer Society, Can Lung Cancer be Found Early, 26 May 2020. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/lung-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/detection.html
- American Cancer Society. Last Medical Review 06 Feb. 2014. http:/cancer.org.
*ACS does not endorse or promote any products or services.