Lung Cancer Screening
What Is It?
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death. Low-dose CT (LDCT) chest screening reduces lung cancer mortality by 20-24% in high-risk adults.
How Is It Diagnosed?
USPSTF: annual LDCT for adults 50-80 years who have 20+ pack-year smoking history and currently smoke or quit within past 15 years. Positive screen (Lung-RADS 3 or 4) requires follow-up CT or PET-CT.
How Is It Treated?
Lung-RADS 1-2: routine annual screening. Lung-RADS 3: 6-month follow-up LDCT. Lung-RADS 4A/B: 3-month CT or PET-CT, pulmonary/thoracic surgery referral. Tissue biopsy for suspicious lesions.
Tests and Imaging Typically Needed
Low-dose CT chest, follow-up imaging per Lung-RADS, PET-CT, CT-guided biopsy if needed.
Approximate Self-Pay Costs
Office visit: $95-$150. LDCT chest: $200-$600 (often covered for eligible patients). Smoking cessation counseling included.