Lung Cancer Screening / Lung Scan

About This Test

A lung scan can detect cancer before any symptoms develop. Most lung cancers are first diagnosed based on symptoms, which unfortunately don't occur until the disease is in the latter stage and treatment options are limited. Lung cancer is the deadliest type of cancer for both men and women. Each year, more people die of lung cancer than of breast, colon, and prostate cancers combined. Without early detection through lung cancer screening, more than 95% of lung cancer patients die within a few years of diagnosis. Getting a lung scan can catch cancer early, when outcomes are much better and up to 90% can be cured. Based on findings released in the 2010 National Lung Screening Trial (NLST), Franciscan Health was the first in Indiana and one of the first in the nation to offer a lung CT screening program for the early detection of lung cancer. The lung screening is safe, simple, non-invasive and results in a minimal amount of radiation exposure.

What causes lung cancer?

Cigarette smoking is the main cause of lung cancer - responsible for over 85% of all lung cancers diagnosed in the United States. People who have never smoked can get lung cancer. The leading cause in non-smokers is long-term exposure to radon gas. Other contributing factors include environmental and occupational exposure to tobacco smoke and certain substances (such as asbestos, silica and radon), lung diseases, family history and poor diet.

Lung cancer symptoms

Symptoms of lung cancer are not very specific and generally reflect damage to the lungs' ability to function. The most common symptoms of lung cancer are:

• Persistent, worsening cough that will not go away
• Spitting up small amounts of blood
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Changes in the voice or being hoarse
• Recurrent pneumonia or bronchitis
• Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite

Since smoking also increases the risk of heart disease, you may also qualify for a heart scan. It is often recommended to get the two scans together at the same appointment if you qualify.

Who should get a lung cancer screening?

A lung scan is for men and women who meet all of the below criteria. Please call if you would like to schedule a lung screen, or if you are not sure if you meet the criteria, and a staff member can help guide you.

• Age 50+
• Have averaged smoking at least one pack of cigarettes per day for 20 years
• No signs or symptoms of lung cancer

Those who qualify for a lung scan also qualify for the abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) vascular screening for an additional $10. 

How much does a lung scan cost?

At Franciscan Health a lung scan costs $49 out of pocket. Not all screenings are available at every imaging center and you must meet the qualifications for each.

A free heart risk assessment is included with every screening.

For more information, call 833-238-0688.