Medically reviewed by Lisa Paul, MD

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States. In 2023, more than 230,000 people across the country were diagnosed. Lung cancer often does not cause symptoms until it is advanced. That is why screening is so important. Finding lung cancer early can save lives.

When lung cancer is caught early, the five-year survival rate is dramatically higher than when it is found at a late stage. The challenge is that according to the American Lung Association, more than 40 percent of cases aren’t diagnosed until the cancer has already spread. A low-dose CT scan can help change that, and at WMCHealth, that scan is available close to home.

What Is Lung Cancer Screening?

Lung cancer screening uses a low-dose CT scan (LDCT) to create detailed images of the lungs. The scan is quick, noninvasive and does not require any injections or dyes. It uses a fraction of the radiation of a traditional CT scan to look for abnormalities in the lungs before symptoms appear.

Unlike a standard chest X-ray, an LDCT scan can detect very small nodules or lung tissue changes that may indicate early-stage cancer. Catching those changes before the cancer has a chance to grow or spread dramatically improves outcomes.

Who Should Get Screened?

Yearly lung cancer screening is recommended for people who meet all three of the following criteria:

• You are between 50 and 80 years old
• You currently smoke or quit within the last 15 years.
• You have smoked the equivalent of one pack a day for 20 years

In recent years, screening guidelines have been expanded, making more people eligible for this potentially life-saving test. If you’re not sure whether you qualify, WMCHealth’s Lung Cancer Screening Program can help you find out.

Screening is recommended only for people who do not currently have symptoms of lung cancer, such as a persistent cough, chest pain, shortness of breath or unexplained weight loss. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, speak with your doctor right away rather than waiting for a scheduled screening.

What happens during the scan?

At WMCHealth, we offer a comprehensive Lung Cancer Screening Program designed to make the process as straightforward and supportive as possible. The screening starts with an in-office evaluation and, if you qualify, a LDCT scan is ordered. This test takes about 20 minutes and is painless. A dedicated nurse practitioner guides patients through every step, from determining eligibility and coordinating referrals to scheduling and follow-up care.

What if Something is Found?

Your scan is reviewed by experts in lung and imaging care to make sure you get the most accurate results possible. For patients who need additional evaluation after screening, the Lung Cancer Screening Program works with the interventional pulmonary and thoracic surgery programs.

If a scan finds an area that needs a closer look, WMCHealth offers robotic-assisted bronchoscopy using the Ion Endoluminal System. This next-generation platform can reach the smallest and hardest-to-access nodules deep within the lungs. The thoracic surgical team at WMCHealth can perform minimally invasive surgery using robot-assisted techniques, resulting in less pain, less scarring and faster recovery.

Ready to Quit Smoking? We Can Help.

Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and quitting is one of the most powerful steps a person can take to protect their long-term health. Through the WMCHealth Lung Cancer Screening Program, licensed, certified tobacco treatment specialists provide personalized treatment plans, evidence-based resources and ongoing support to help patients stop smoking for good.

Quitting is not easy, but you don’t have to do it alone. In addition to the support available through WMCHealth, several other resources can help:

• Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT): Available over the counter in patch, gum, lozenge, nasal spray and inhaler forms, NRT delivers a controlled, lower dose of nicotine to ease cravings while you work toward quitting.
• Prescription medications:Two FDA-approved non-nicotine options, varenicline and bupropion, have been shown to significantly reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Ask your provider whether these may be a good fit for you.
• New York State Smokers’ Quitline:Free cessation support is available at 1.866.NY.QUITS (1.866.697.8487). Trained counselors can help you build a personalized quit plan.

Many insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, cover FDA-approved cessation medications and counseling. WMCHealth’s Smoking Cessation Program is comprehensive and offered to all patients, including those not eligible for screening services.

To schedule a lung cancer screening or to learn more about the WMCHealth Lung Cancer Screening Program and the Smoking Cessation Program, call 833.WMC.LUNG (833.962.5864) or visit our website.