Lung Cancer Screening: Awareness Starts with You

— Authored by Michael (Mickey) Rachshtut, MD, Chief, Division of Hematology and Oncology, and Director, Hemostasis and Thrombosis Program, Redeemer Health Cancer Center

Lung Cancer Awareness Month shines a light on the importance of early detection, especially because lung cancer often does not cause symptoms in its early stages. For people at higher risk, a low-dose CT (LDCT) scan can find changes in the lungs early, when treatment may be most effective.

Screening eligibility depends mainly on your age and smoking history. If you qualify, your doctor can order the scan. It's quick and painless, requires no needles, and uses much less radiation than a standard CT.

If the scan finds a lung nodule, that doesn't necessarily mean cancer. Further evaluation can help determine the right next step. 

Studies have shown that screening high-risk adults with low-dose CT can reduce lung cancer mortality by about 20%. 

Who Should Be Screened for Lung Cancer?

You may be a candidate for an LDCT scan if you:

• Are between 50 and 80 years old
• Have a 20 pack-year smoking history (for example, one pack a day for 20 years or two packs a day for 10 years)
• Currently smoke or have quit within the last 15 years

Other Risk Factors to Discuss with Your Doctor

Even if you don’t meet all of the above criteria, other factors can raise your risk. Talk with your doctor if you:

• Have been exposed to secondhand smoke, radon gas, asbestos, or other cancer-causing substances
• Have a family history of lung cancer
• Have had previous radiation therapy 

If any of these apply to you or someone you love, start with a conversation with your primary care physician. Together, you can review your health history and decide whether screening is right for you.

If you smoke, it’s never too late to quit. Stopping now can still have meaningful benefits for your lungs and your health. Have questions? Call 215-938-LUNG (5864).

What Happens if a Lung Nodule is Found? 

Hearing the word “nodule” can be unsettling, but many lung nodules are benign. What matters most is making sure the finding is carefully evaluated so that you and your care team can understand the best way forward.

If a lung nodule is found during screening, follow-up care may include additional evaluation, diagnosis, and management. At Redeemer Health, this care is coordinated through the Integrated Lung Nodule Program.

Here's what you can expect: 

• Connection to the right team right away. If your LDCT scan finds a high-risk nodule, you'll be referred to the program for timely follow-up. 
• A team of specialists reviewing your case. Pulmonary specialists, interventional radiologists, thoracic surgeons, and lung cancer specialists work together to decide whether you need additional testing or continued monitoring. 
• Advanced biopsy options, if needed. Ion robotic-assisted bronchoscopy can reach nodules in all areas of the lung with precision. CT- and ultrasound-guided biopsies target nodules accurately, with minimal discomfort.
• A care plan built around you. Your personalized plan may include monitoring, a minimally invasive procedure, or treatment through Redeemer Health Cancer Center. Whatever your results, you’ll have a precise diagnosis and ongoing support for peace of mind.

A Clearer Picture of Your Lung Health 

A low-dose CT scan can provide clearer information about your lung health. Whether your result is normal or shows a small finding that needs follow-up, screening can help you and your doctor make informed decisions about next steps.

This Lung Cancer Awareness Month, consider talking with your doctor about whether screening is right for you or someone you love. If you have a history of smoking or other risk factors, that conversation could be an important first step. 

To learn more about lung cancer screening at Redeemer Health, visit RedeemerHealth.org/Lung-Cancer-Screening or call 215-938-LUNG (5864).

Expert Care for Lung Cancer, Close to Home 

Redeemer Health’s lung cancer program holds national accreditation through the GO2 Foundation for Lung Cancer’s Care Continuum Center of Excellence. It is also recognized by the Lung Cancer Alliance as a Screening Center of Excellence. Click here to learn more.

About the Author 

Dr. Michael (Mickey) Rachshtut is Chief, Division of Hematology & Oncology, and Director, Hemostasis and Thrombosis Program, at Redeemer Health Cancer Center. Affectionately known as "Dr. Mickey," he combines clinical expertise with a personal approach, helping patients understand their diagnosis and treatment options. With access to a comprehensive cancer team delivering expert care close to home, Dr. Rachshtut ensures his patients receive seamless, individualized care every step of the way. He is board certified in medical oncology and hematology and is fluent in English, Hebrew, and Russian. Learn more about Dr. Rachshtut here.