If you’ve smoked, vaped, or been exposed to toxic or hazardous materials, then you may be at a higher risk for lung cancer. One of the things that makes lung cancer particularly difficult to treat is that symptoms are typically hidden until the cancer has already spread. However, there are lung cancer screenings available that help detect cancer even when symptoms aren’t present.
These tests can be lifesavers. And it’s important to get one if you might be at risk.
Who should get a lung cancer screening?
Typically, lung cancer screenings are recommended for individuals who are over the age of 50 and meet at least one of the following criteria:
- You’re a current smoker with a 30 pack-year history or more, or have quit in the past 15 years.
- You have a history of cancer.
- You have family members who have had lung cancer.
- You have been exposed to hazardous materials such as radon or asbestos.
A smoking pack-year refers to the number of years you smoked multiplied by the number of packs of cigarettes you smoked per day. For example, someone who smoked two packs a day for 15 years would have 30 pack-years of smoking. The same could be said for someone who smoked one pack a day for 30 years.
Where can I be screened for lung cancer?
A lung cancer CT scan is available for anyone who meets the criteria discussed above. We also offer a number of other screenings and imaging tests for anyone concerned about underlying health problems.
To schedule a screening, visit Gateway Hancock Health, where you can not only self-refer for your lung scan, but the scans are only $99. It’s just another way we’re making health possible for you. Give us a call and schedule your lung scan today.
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