Lung Cancer Screening
What You Need to Know
What is lung cancer screening?
Lung cancer screening is a way to find lung cancer early — before you have signs or symptoms. The test uses a low-dose CT (computed tomography) scan, a special X‑ray that takes detailed pictures of the lungs using very little radiation. The scan only takes a few minutes and does not hurt.
Why Get Screened for Lung Cancer?
Early detection through annual low-dose CT scans can save lives. If you're at high risk, this easy and painless scan helps catch cancer early—when it’s most treatable — improving survival by about 80%.
- Screening can find cancer before symptoms like a cough or weight loss appear.
- Stage 1 lung cancer has a 95% survival rate.
- Early-stage cancer often needs smaller surgery or less aggressive treatment.
Who should get screened?
You may be eligible for annual lung cancer screening if you meet all of the criteria below:
- Are 50–80 years old, and
- Have a history of smoking equal to 20 or more pack‑years
(For example: smoking one pack per day for 20 years, or two packs per day for 10 years), AND
- Currently smoke or quit within the last 15 years.
Talk with your doctor to decide if screening is right for you. They can help you weigh the benefits and risks.
What happens during the test?
- You lie on a table that slides into the CT machine.
- You may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds while the machine takes pictures.
- You don't need an IV or dye, and there are no needles.
- The machine is quiet, painless and takes only a few minutes.
- You can resume normal activities right afterward.
What happens after the test?
- Clear scan: If the results are normal, return in 1 year for another scan.
- If something shows up: You might need another scan or other tests. Many times, these findings are not cancer.
- For concerning findings, you may be sent to a lung specialist.
Annual low-dose CT scans are an easy, painless, and fast way to find lung cancer early if you’re at risk. Early detection saves lives.
If you are between 50–80 years old and have smoked heavily in the past, talk to your doctor today. Many insurance plans cover the test at low or no cost.
If you have questions, please call Bryan Scheduling Center at 402-481-5121.
Related Information
Lung Cancer: Navigating Screening, Surgery and Treatment with an Expert Team
Dr. Lance Bezzina leads a discussion on lung cancer, focusing on symptoms, when to get screened, and treatment and surgery options.
Listen to Podcast
Lung Cancer: Risk Factors, Updated Screening Guidelines and Next Steps
Dr. Ryan Martin explains the latest lung cancer statistics, screening guidelines and biopsy technology.
Listen to Podcast
