Low-dose computed tomography (CT) lung screening is offered at some Texas Health hospitals to people who may be at an increased risk for developing lung cancer. The screening programs offer individuals at risk for lung cancer the opportunity to screen and diagnose lung cancer before symptoms develop.

The National Cancer Institute supported the National Lung Screening Trial (NLST) that proved screening people at high risk for lung cancer with low-dose CT scans reduces mortality from lung cancer by 20 percent.

Lung Cancer Screening

• Low-dose CT scan of the lungs – the entire chest area is scanned, which takes around 15 seconds
• Radiologist reviews the scan for signs of nodules that might indicate cancer

Are you a Candidate?

• Age 55 to 77
• No signs or symptoms of lung cancer
• Tobacco smoking history of at least 30 pack-years (one pack minus year = smoking one pack per day for one year; 1 pack = 20 cigarettes)
•  Smoking Calculator
• Current smoker or one who has quit smoking within the last 15 years

Texas Health lung screening programs have been recognized by the American College of Radiology for commitment to practicing safe, effective diagnostic care for those at high-risk for lung cancer. The programs are led by a multidisciplinary team of physicians, including oncologists, radiologists, cardiovascular surgeons and pulmonologists on the medical staff.