Protect Your Health: The Importance of Early Lung Cancer Screening

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S., claiming more than 130,000 lives each year. Early detection is key to improving survival rates, particularly for non-small cell lung cancer, the most common form of the disease. Unfortunately, lung cancer symptoms often don’t appear until the cancer is advanced, making early screening crucial.

Eisenhower Health’s Lung Cancer Screening Program offers Low Dose Computed Tomography (LDCT) screening, the most effective method for early detection. This non-invasive, painless procedure uses a minimal amount of radiation to capture detailed images of the lungs, allowing for the identification of abnormalities at their earliest stages.

Who Should Consider Screening?

Screening is recommended for individuals at high risk, particularly those over 50 years of age with a history of heavy smoking. An example of heavy smoking is smoking at least one (1) pack of cigarettes a day for 20 years ­– or two (2) packs a day for 10 years. If you fall into this category, regular LDCT scans could be a lifesaving measure.

What to Expect During the Screening

The LDCT scan is quick, usually taking about 15 minutes. During the procedure, a low-dose, non-invasive form of CT scan is used and does not require drinking contrast fluid. The results of your low-dose CT lung screening is then analyzed by specialists who discuss findings and recommendations with you in the clinic or via telemedicine.

Taking Action

If you’re in a high-risk group, don’t wait for symptoms to appear — early screening can dramatically improve your chances of survival. Eisenhower Health is here to help, offering you peace of mind through early detection. Most insurance providers cover lung cancer screening.

For more information about Eisenhower Health’s Lung Cancer Screening Program, read this short article. Our specialists discuss the importance of taking action with early detection screenings at Eisenhower Health.

To determine if you’re a candidate for lung cancer screening, call Eisenhower’s Lung Cancer Screening Program at 760.837.8880.