The American Cancer Society recommends yearly screening for lung with a low-dose CT (LDCT) scan for:
• people ages 50 to 80 who smoke or
• used to smoke and have at least a 20-pack-year history of smoking.
A pack-year is equal to smoking 1 pack (or about 20 cigarettes) per day for a year. For example, a person could have a 20 pack-year history by smoking 1 pack a day for 20 years, or by smoking 2 packs a day for 10 years.
This is a quick, painless, no needle test. Medicare covers this test up to age 77 and it is covered by most other insurance companies as well. (It is recommended that prior to the test you confirm with your health insurance company that the Lung Cat Scan is covered so you avoid any unnecessary invoices).
To get a prescription for this potentially life saving test, contact your IMA Primary Care office.