Lung Scan

Screening for Lung Cancer

Benefits

Current medical evidence indicates this test may be beneficial for detecting lung cancer in long-term smokers. This is provided that the tests are repeated at yearly intervals. Lung cancer can grow extremely fast and a patient’s condition can change in as little as a few months. Canada Diagnostic Centres is pleased to offer a screening program which ensures a baseline test and follow up testing at substantially reduced costs.

Potential Candidates

Long-term smokers are potential candidates for this screening test. The test is not appropriate for non-smokers without symptoms or individuals who have already been diagnosed with cancer.

Considerations

Up to 75% of patients who complete an initial test will have small, non-cancerous nodules detected in their lungs. However, it is necessary to have repeat tests at regular intervals to monitor the size and condition of the nodules.

Potential Risks from Screening Services

Unless screening CT exams are tailored to your age and medical history; there is no evidence these tests are effective in reducing mortality. Over fifty percent of screening tests require further investigation for uncertain findings. Should a follow up surgical biopsy be required, there is the risk of bleeding, infection, collapsed lung or even death in very rare circumstances. Radiation exposure from screening CT tests is considered safe. However, it is possible to develop cancer from radiation if you have many tests over your lifetime.

With any recommended tests, a comprehensive preventive health maintenance program should always include regular physician visits and self-awareness. Indicate to your physician any new symptoms. For existing symptoms or problems, diagnostic examinations may be required and should be determined by your physician (X-ray, Ultrasound, CT diagnostic or MRI).

For your convenience it is possible to conduct both diagnostic and screening exams at the same time; should you require a screening exam for one reason and a diagnostic exam for another (e.g. Screening Coronary Artery Scoring and a Diagnostic MRI of the knee for detection of a tear).

Diagnostic exams assess problems or symptoms that are already present. Screening exams assess your potential for developing certain diseases depending on your risk factors.