Lung cancer, most frequently caused by cigarette smoking, is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States.

On November 4, 2010, the National Cancer Institute released its initial results of the National Lung Screening Trial (NLST). Their conclusion was that screening people at high-risk for lung cancer with Low Dose CT Scans (LDCT) significantly reduces lung cancer deaths.

GCM now offers LDCT screening at all its Imaging Centers. This examination does not require contrast and utilizes only 25-50% of the amount of radiation in a standard Chest CT. Using this technology, tiny asymptomatic lung cancers that would have been invisible on traditional chest x-rays can now be detected. Other infectious, occupational, environmental or smoking-related damage to the lungs will also be evaluated.

Because insurance companies are not currently covering screening LDCT for asymptomatic patients, these examinations will be self-pay studies. However, please note that the cost of the examination will be far less than a traditional CT examination of the chest. It is also highly recommended that you review your results with your primary care physician.

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