Did you know? For both men and women, lung cancer is the most deadly cancer. It kills more women than breast cancer and more men than prostate cancer. Until recently, though, lung cancer deaths were difficult to prevent because doctors could only catch lung cancer far along in the disease process. By that time, the cancer was too late to treat effectively. Now, however, a low-dose CT screening can identify lung nodules early, while they can be treated effectively. Our team at AFC Urgent Care Chapman Highway can help you determine whether a lung cancer screening is right for you.
What Causes Lung Cancer?
Most lung cancer deaths are caused by smoking. Even secondhand smoke is dangerous. Nonsmokers are between 20 and 30% more likely to develop lung cancer if they live or work around cigarette smoke. Other causes of lung cancer include indoor and outdoor air pollution. The biggest culprits are radon and asbestos.
Signs of Lung Cancer
- Coughing, especially coughing up blood
- Hoarse throat or wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Weight loss
- Remember, many lung cancers do not have symptoms in the early stages!
How Can I Find a Lung Cancer Screening?
Today, the FDA has approved a screening test for people who are at high risk for lung cancer. This test can identify cancerous nodules—before symptoms develop. It’s potentially a lifesaver. It’s called low-dose CT screening for lung cancer, and it’s available at medical centers across the country. For eligible patients, it’s covered by insurance or Medicare.
Who’s Eligible for Screening?
- Current smokers or people who have smoked within the past 15 years, who
- Have smoked extensively (for example, a pack a day for thirty years or two packs daily for 15 years)
- Are between 55 and 80 years old
Want to talk with a provider about a lung cancer screening? Make an AFC TeleCare appointment with our AFC Urgent Care Chapman Highway team to learn your next steps.
