STOP LUNG CANCER BEFORE IT STOPS YOU

Are You a Longtime Smoker? This Simple Scan Can Save Your Life.

Lung cancer is the #1 leading cause of cancer death in the US, above breast, prostate and colorectal cancers. The vast majority of cases occur in heavy smokers.

Who is Considered a Heavy Smoker?

The American Cancer Society considers someone to be at high risk of developing smoking-related lung cancer when they share the following traits:

55-77 AGES

Ages 55-77 Currently smokes or has quit within the past 15 years

Has smoked tobacco for 30 or more “pack years,” which is the number of packs smoked per day times the number of years smoked

Unfortunately, by the time symptoms appear, lung cancer has usually spread outside the lung, making it difficult or impossible to treat. Early detection is the key to surviving lung cancer.

If you’re 55 or older and a heavy or longtime current or former smoker, talk to your doctor about a screening chest scan called Low Dose Computed Tomography (LDCT). This painless, noninvasive test uses up to 90% less ionizing radiation than standard CT scans, and can capture lung cancer in its earliest stages when it is easiest to treat.

With your doctor’s referral, your scan may be 100% covered by Medicare.

People 50 and older with a 20-pack-year smoking history combined with at least one other risk factor, such as a personal or family history of lung disease, are also considered high risk. Talk honestly with your doctor. If LDCT is right for you, your doctor can refer you to RAO for advanced LDCT services. Our team of Board Certified radiologists will work directly with your doctor to review your results and ensure you’re getting the best possible care.