CHI Memorial is offering free low dose CT screening for lung cancer for all US veterans during November.
"This screening is important for adults between the ages of 55 and 74 with a history of heavy smoking and those who are at a high risk for lung cancer. With more than 150,000 people dying from lung cancer per year, this CT scan has shown to improve survival by 20 percent according to The National Lung Screening Trial by the National Cancer Institute," officials said.
Lung cancer screening is a test to look for signs of lung cancer in otherwise healthy people. Doctors use computerized tomography scan of the lungs to look for lung cancer. When lung cancer is detected at a very early stage, it may be more likely to be cured.
“Early detection as a result of CT imaging has been a prime focus in the national healthcare discussion and a priority at CHI Memorial,” said Krish Bhadra, M.D., interventional pulmonologist at the Buzz Standifer Lung Center at CHI Memorial.
The criteria for CT lung screening are: 55-74 years old; have never been diagnosed with lung cancer; have smoked a pack of cigarettes a day for 30 years; or have quit smoking in the last 15 years
Radiologist and pulmonologists at CHI Memorial are teaming to ensure a comprehensive approach to the detection of lung cancer. Pulmonologists diagnose and treat diseases and disorders of the lungs and respiratory system including asthma, bronchitis, sleep apnea, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pneumonia, chest infections, cystic fibrosis, lung cancer and many other diseases and conditions. More than 35 million Americans are now living with chronic lung disease. Pulmonologists perform complex airway procedures, diagnostic and lung-function testing. Interventional pulmonologists use advanced diagnostic and therapeutic techniques to treat patients with lung cancer, benign airway disorders and pleural disease.
For more information or to schedule an appointment with our nurse navigator, call 423-495-5864.