The US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends that people at high risk for lung cancer should undergo annual screening with low-dose computed tomography (CT) scans. This recommendation is based on evidence that shows screening with low-dose CT scans can reduce deaths from lung cancer in people at high risk.
The USPSTF recommends annual screening for lung cancer with low-dose CT scans for people who meet the following criteria:
- Are between 50 and 80 years old
- Have a 20 pack-year smoking history (equivalent to smoking one pack of cigarettes per day for 20 years)
- Are current smokers or have quit within the past 15 years
Screening should continue annually until a person has not smoked for 15 years or has developed certain health conditions. These preventative scans also have the ability to detect a number of non-cancerous conditions as well.
Overall, the USPSTF recommends lung cancer screening with low-dose CT scans for people at high risk of lung cancer, as it has the potential to save lives.
Click here to learn more about the Heart and Lung Scan offered at Visionary Wellness & Imaging, or contact us to book an appointment.
You can read the original post from the US Preventive Services Task Force here.
