Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the United States, with more people dying from it than colon, breast and prostate cancers combined.

While this fact may be concerning, there is good news: The number of new lung cancer cases is declining and survival rates are increasing. This can be attributed to lower rates of smoking and an increase in lung cancer screenings, which allow clinicians to detect lung cancer earlier (when it is most treatable).

“Screenings are a powerful tool. They help us detect lung cancer at an early stage,” says Dillon Cason, MD, with LVPG Hematology Oncology–Carbon. “Patients who are at a higher risk of developing lung cancer can benefit immensely from screening. Cancers can be detected earlier, often leading to more effective treatments and higher rates of cure.”

Screening guidelines

Lung cancer screening is done with low-dose computed tomography (CT) scans.

During the test, you lie on a table while an X-ray machine uses low doses of radiation to create detailed images of your lungs. The scan only takes a couple minutes and is completely pain-free.

At this time, only certain individuals can be screened. To be eligible, you must meet all the following criteria:

• Be age 50 to 80.

• Have a 20 pack-year smoking history (determined by multiplying the number of cigarette packs smoked per day by the number of years smoked).

• Currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years.

How to get screened

These lung cancer screening guidelines were recently updated by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, allowing younger individuals with less pack-years to get screened. Lung cancer screenings are covered by most insurances: up to age 80 with most private insurances and up to age 77 with Medicare and Medicaid.

If you would like to schedule a lung cancer screening, discuss your eligibility with your family medicine or primary care physician. From there, you should speak to your insurance provider to make sure you are covered for the screening.

Schedule your lung cancer screening today by calling 610-402-1234.