Low Dose Lung Screening

What is a Low Dose Lung Screening?

The American College of Radiology (ACR) has recognized University Center Imaging as a “Designated Lung Cancer Screening Center”. A CT scan is a non-invasive, painless medical exam that combines the use of X-rays with computers to produce images that allow physicians to look inside the patient’s body. A CT can differentiate bone from muscle and fat in the part of the body being examined thereby producing a clear, extremely detailed picture of the body’s internal structures. The best tool for a lung screening is a CT. This provides detailed, cross sectional views and is able to scan the entire chest in about five to ten seconds. The entire lung screening process will take approximately 15 minutes.

Uses for a Low Dose Lung Screening

Lung cancer screening is a process that’s used to detect the presence of lung cancer in otherwise healthy people with a high risk of lung cancer. Lung cancer screening is recommended for older adults who are longtime smokers and who don’t have any signs or symptoms of lung cancer. The goal of lung cancer screening is to detect lung cancer at a very early stage — when it’s more likely to be cured. By the time lung cancer signs and symptoms develop, the cancer is usually too advanced for curative treatment. Studies show lung cancer screening reduces the risk of dying of lung cancer.

Qualifications:

  • Older adults who are current or former smokers. Lung cancer screening is generally offered to smokers and former smokers who are between the ages of 50-80
  • People who have smoked heavily for many years. You may consider lung cancer screening if you have a minimum 20 pack per year history (average of one pack per day for 30 years)
  • Currently smoke or have quit in the past 15 years.

Before You Arrive

Save time! To expedite your process, complete your Registration online through our Patient Portal.

After the Exam

Once your scan is complete, a Radiologist will examine the images. Your physician will receive the images and reports via PACS and fax. Contact your physician directly to discuss your results. Results are also available through the Patient Portal. Allow 3 to 5 business days.