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MURRAY, KY – Murray-Calloway County Hospital offers a low dose lung cancer screening program to reduce the risk of cancer and identify those who are high risk. The screenings are offered as part of their ongoing commitment to early detection and cancer prevention in our community.
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death in both men and women in the United States, but early detection through the screening can significantly improve survival rates. This screening is especially important for individuals at high risk, including those with a history of heavy smoking.
The lung cancer screening program at Murray-Calloway County Hospital offers those with high risk of developing lung cancer the opportunity to be screened for lung cancer with the latest in 3-dimensional Computed Tomography (CT) imaging. This allows patients to receive their diagnosis at an early stage, even before symptoms develop. Early detection alone can save up to 20,000 lives each year, according to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force.
The screening is quick, non-invasive, and uses a low dose of radiation. Patients who may benefit from this screening typically meet the following criteria:
The US Preventive Services Task Force (Task Force) recommends yearly lung cancer screening with Low Dose CT for people who:
- Have a 20 pack-year or more smoking history, and
- Smoke now or have quit within the past 15 years, and
- Are between 50 and 80 years old.
A pack-year is smoking an average of one pack of cigarettes per day for one year. For example, a person could have a 20 pack-year history by smoking one pack a day for 20 years or two packs a day for 10 years.
Benefits and Risks of Low Dose CT Lung Screening
Any exposure to ionizing radiation carries some inherent risk. Before undergoing a low dose-screening chest CT, you should understand the potential risks and benefits of the exam and discuss them with your physician. Low dose chest CT results use approximately one quarter dose of a conventional chest CT. MCCH has a dose modulation package installed on their CT that further reduces radiation to the patient. This screening is non-invasive.
Without screening, many lung cancers diagnosed cannot be surgically removed due to their advanced stage. With the leadership of local physicians and hospital administration, we have started a process that is designed to diagnose patients when there is hope for treatment and ‘more tomorrows.’
Other insurance companies may have different criteria for covering a lung cancer screening. Most private insurance now covers the screening but check with your provider for more information.
Over 50% of lung cancers could be cured if they were caught at an early stage.
Five-year survival rate is less than 5% when diagnosed as advanced Stage IV lung cancer. However, increases survival rates to 60-80% if diagnosed early.
Cost
Currently, Medicare and most private insurances are now covering the cost of low dose chest CT lung screening for patients who meet the eligibility requirements. For the screening to be most effective, it is recommended the screening be done annually. If insurance coverage is not available, a reduced pre-paid cash price option is available at the time of the service. Radiologist interpretation fees will be billed separately.
How do I schedule this exam?
If you feel that you could benefit from lung screening, talk to your doctor or healthcare provider. The exam requires a written physician order and can be scheduled by the provider’s office.
For more information about the low-dose lung cancer screening program at Murray-Calloway County Hospital, contact Heidi Hordyk, Director of Radiology at 270.762.2179.
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