A lung cancer screening with low dose CT removes the belief many share
- that if they have smoked for many years, there is no use in trying to
quit now. These screenings can help individuals retake control of their
destiny. Quitting smoking not only reduces one's chances of lung cancer
but just as importantly stroke, heart attack, and peripheral vascular disease.
UF Health St. Johns has been designated a Lung Cancer Screening Center
by the American College of Radiology (ACR). ACR Lung Cancer Screening
Center designation recognizes facilities that are committed to practicing
safe, effective diagnostic care for individuals at the highest risk for
lung cancer.
In order to receive this elite distinction, facilities must be accredited
by the ACR in computed tomography in the chest module, as well as undergo
a rigorous assessment of its lung cancer screening protocol and infrastructure.
Procedures are also required for follow-up patient care, such as counseling
and smoking cessation programs.
Who is Eligible for Screening?
Lung cancer screening is not appropriate for everybody. You qualify for
screening if you:
• Age 50-77 years
• No current signs or symptoms of lung disease
• Tobacco smoking history of at least 20 pack-years (pack-years are
calculated by multiplying the number of packs smoked per day by number
of years smoked)
• Current or former smokers who have quit within the last 15 years
What are the benefits of screening?
For people who are eligible for screening and decide to get screened, the
chances of finding cancer earlier is higher. Finding cancer early generally
means that there are more treatment options available. A recent study
in 2004 conducted by The National Lung Screening Trial Research Team showed
that after 6.5 years, those who were screened with CT were 20% less likely
to die from lung cancer compared to those who were not screened. Do you
meet the criteria above? Ask your doctor if you could benefit from lung
cancer screening.
Continue Reading
