Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States. Every year, it kills more people than breast, colorectal, and prostate cancer combined. Kentucky has the highest rate of lung cancer in the entire country.
With the goal of saving lives, Markey Cancer Center maintains a Lung Cancer Screening Program. Lung cancer screening is highly recommended for individuals with a high risk of lung cancer. These include people aged 55-80, people who smoke or have quit smoking, and people who have been smoking a pack or more every day for the past 15-30 years.
The screening involves capturing images of the chest cavity with a low-dose computed tomography (CT) scan. These images are then examined by a radiologist to identify potential cancers. The screenings are covered by a variety of medical insurance plans.
While screening does not prevent lung cancer, early detection does increase a patient’s options and also improves his/her likelihood of survival. Experts note the best way to prevent lung cancer is to quit smoking. With this in mind, the Lung Cancer Screening Program offers participants access to a smoking cessation specialist.