​Lung Cancer Screening

Find lung cancer early with a low-dose CT scan

Lung cancer may not cause symptoms in its early stages. Lung cancer screening can help find cancer earlier, when it may be easier to treat. 

If you have a history of smoking, talk with your health care provider about whether screening is right for you.

What is lung cancer screening?

Lung cancer screening uses a low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scan to create detailed images of your lungs. The scan is painless, takes only a few minutes, and does not require needles or injections.

A screening scan may also find lung nodules or other changes that need follow-up. Most lung nodules are not cancer, but your health care team may recommend additional imaging or testing.

Who should be screened?

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends yearly lung cancer screening for adults who:

• Are 50 to 80 years old
• Currently smoke or quit smoking within the past 15 years
• Have a 20 pack-year or more smoking history

What is a pack-year?

A pack-year measures how much you have smoked over time.

• 1 pack a day for 20 years = 20 pack-years
• 2 packs a day for 10 years = 20 pack-years

The American Cancer Society also recommends yearly screening for people ages 50 to 80 with a 20 pack-year or more smoking history who currently smoke or previously smoked.

Your health history matters. Talk with your health care provider to determine if lung cancer screening is right for you.

What happens during a low-dose CT scan?

During the scan, you will lie on a table that moves through the CT scanner. You may be asked to hold your breath for a short time while images are taken.

A low-dose CT scan:

• Is painless
• Takes only a few minutes
• Does not require an injection
• Uses a lower amount of radiation than a standard CT scan

If the scan finds something that needs further evaluation, your health care team will explain the next steps. This may include follow-up imaging or additional testing.