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LDCT
What is Low Dose CT Screening?
Low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening for lung cancer is a specialized test that is used to find lung cancer before it is symptomatic and before it has spread.
The exam itself is quick and easy. While lying on your back, you are moved through a small donut-shaped machine – not a tunnel – so there is no worry of feeling claustrophobic. There are no needles for contrast or x-ray dye, and no need to fast before the exam.
Most importantly, this screening test is covered by almost all insurance plans for most people at high risk.
How do I know if I am a Candidate for Low-Dose CT Lung Screening?
There are a few factors used to assess candidacy for this screening, all of which involve your smoking status:
- You have at least a 20 pack-year smoking history (meaning, ½ pack per day for 40 years, 1 pack per day for 20 years, 2 packs per day for 10 years, etc.)
- You currently smoke or have quit smoking within the last 15 years
- Are 50 to 80 years of age.
What is Lung Cancer?
Lung cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the lungs. All cancers start when cells in the body begin to grow out of control. Cancers that start in other organs, such as the breast, pancreas, kidney or skin, can sometimes spread to the lungs. This is called “metastasis,” but these are not considered lung cancers. Treatment for metastatic cancer to the lungs is based on where the cancer started.
There are two main types of lung cancer and they are treated very differently.
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
NSCLC make up about 80% to 85% of lung cancers. There are three main subtypes of NSCLC which are adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and large cell carcinoma. These subtypes start from different types of lung cells but they are grouped together as NSCLC because their treatment and prognoses are often similar.
Adenocarcinoma – this type of lung cancer occurs mainly in people who currently smoke or formerly smoked, but it is also the most common type of lung cancer seen in people who don’t smoke. It is more common in women than men, and it is more likely to occur in younger people than other types of lung cancer. This cancer is usually found in the outer parts of the lung and is more likely to be found before it has spread.
Squamous cell carcinoma – this form of lung cancer starts in the squamous cells which line the inside of the airways in the lungs. This is also often linked to a history of smoking.
Large cell carcinoma – this lung cancer can appear in any part of the lung and tends to grow and spread quickly, which can make it more difficult to treat.
Small cell lung cancer (SCLC)
Sometimes called “oat cell cancer,” about 10% to 15% of all lung cancers are SCLC. This type of lung cancer tends to grow and spread faster than NSCLC and about 70% of people with SCLC will have cancer that has already spread by the time they are diagnosed.
There are a few other types of lung tumors, however these are very rare.
What are my Risks for Lung Cancer?
A “risk factor” is anything that increases a person’s chance of getting a disease, like cancer. Some risk factors are “modifiable,” meaning, they can be changed. Others, like a person’s age or family history, cannot be changed – they are “non-modifiable.” It’s important to realize however, that having a risk factor, or even several, does not mean you will definitely get cancer. Likewise, some people who do get cancer may have few or no risk factors at all.
Modifiable Risk Factors for Lung Cancer
Smoking – Smoking is by far the leading risk factor for lung cancer. About 80% of lung cancer deaths are thought to result from smoking. Cigar and pipe smoking are also likely to cause lung cancer.
Secondhand Smoke – Even if you don’t smoke yourself, breathing in the smoke of others can increase your risk of developing lung cancer. Secondhand smoke is thought to cause more than 7,000 deaths each year.
Exposure to Cancer-Causing Agents – Radon, which is still found in some homes and buildings; asbestos, which may be present in some workplaces, such as mines, mills, textile plants and places where insulation is used; chemicals, such as those found in labs, and diesel exhaust – all of these substances, when inhaled regularly, can cause lung cancer.
Non-Modifiable Risk Factors for Lung Cancer
Previous Radiation Therapy to the Lungs – People who have had radiation therapy to the chest for other cancers are at higher risk for lung cancer, especially if they smoke.
Air Pollution – In cities, air pollution seems to raise the risk of lung cancer slightly. Some researchers estimate that worldwide, about 5% of lung cancer deaths may be due to outdoor air pollution.
Family History – If you have had lung cancer in the past, you have a higher risk of developing another lung cancer. Close family members, such as brothers, sisters and children of people who have had lung cancer may have a slightly higher risk of lung cancer themselves, especially if the relative was diagnosed at a younger age. Researchers have found that genetics seems to play a role in some families with a strong history of lung cancer.
Our goal is to find cancers as early as possible so people can live their healthiest lives.
