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Low-Dose Lung Cancer Screening (LDLS)

An effective screening test for lung cancer

Studies have shown that current and former smokers, evaluated with low-dose commuted tomography (LDCT), have a much greater survival rate than those evaluated with other methods. LDCT lung cancer screening test can even find smaller, earlier stage and more treatable cancers than X-ray.

Recently, the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) broadened its recommendations for LDCT lung screening. Those between 50 and 80, who have smoked an average of about one pack per day for 20 years, are advised to speak to their doctor about this test.

Who is eligible for LDCT lung screening?

Most private insurance and Medicare will cover low-dose CT lung screening, providing you meet the following criteria:

  • You are between the ages of 50 and 77
  • You have no signs or symptoms of lung cancer
  • You smoked tobacco for 20-pack years or more (cigar and non-cigarette smokers are not eligible)
  • You are a current smoker or quit smoking within the last 15 years,

AND

  • You have a written order for low-dose CT lung screening from your healthcare provider

If you qualify, lung screening is recommended because:

  • It can detect cancer at an earlier, more treatable stage
  • It reduces your chances of dying from lung cancer or lung disease
  • It can lead to less invasive surgery with less lung tissue removed

How is lung cancer screening performed?

Lung cancer screening uses low-dose computed tomography (LDCT). It is fast, painless, and completely non-invasive. You simply lie back and hold your breath while the CT scanner takes X-ray based pictures of your lung and chest.

If no lung problems are detected, your LDCT lung cancer screening test should be repeated in one year. After two years, your doctor may recommend a different frequency of screening.

After your test at Imaging Healthcare Specialists in Southern California, the images will be interpreted by one of our specially trained radiologists, who will then present a written report of the findings to your physician. 

In many cases, LDCT lung cancer screening test is covered by insurance. Please ask your insurance company if your plan covers you. If not, it is offered as a cash payment procedure for a nominal fee.

Lung Cancer Screening at Imaging Healthcare Specialists

Don’t wait… talk to your doctor today.

Your doctor knows that lung cancer screening with LDCT is proven and saves lives. Talk to your doctor about your individual risk factors determine if a lung screening test is right for you.

Call 858-658-6500 for more information.

*Doctor order required for exam

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