Low-Dose CT can help find lung cancer earlier

November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month. It's a good time to remind those who may be at high risk, there's now an effective screening tool for early detection: the low-dose CT scan (LDCT).

Like most cancers, lung cancer can be effectively treated if it is found early.

LDCT is covered by Medicare and Medicaid and many private insurance plans for those who meet certain criteria:

• Must be between the ages of 55 and 77 (Medicare/Medicaid) or 80 if you're covered by a private insurer.
• Have no signs or symptoms of lung cancer.
• Have a smoking history of 30 pack years. (Former smokers may qualify if they meet the pack-year criteria and quit no more than 15 years ago.)
• Be in relatively good health.

The LDCT may uncover other conditions unrelated to cancer, such as emphysema, coronary artery disease and aneurysms.

If you're interested in the LDCT screening, talk with your family care provider. They will discuss the benefits, potential harms and limitations of screening so you and your provider can decide together if LDCT is right for you.

King's Daughters offers low-dose CT screening for lung cancer at its hospitals in Ashland and Portsmouth.

For more information about this screening, speak with your primary care provider.

Need a doctor?

Call King's Daughters Care 24/7 line at 1-844-324-2200 or (606) 408-8999.