Lung Cancer Screening Program
Mercy Medical Center offers a Lung Cancer Screening Program in partnership with primary care physicians and referring physicians throughout the Baltimore area.
The Lung Cancer Screening Program at Mercy is designed to detect early-stage lung cancer and improve chances of successful treatment. Mercy’s physicians are dedicated to providing annual screenings and ongoing counseling for patients who may be at risk for lung cancer.
What is the Lung Cancer Screening Program?
Lung cancer is one of the deadliest forms of cancer for both men and women, often because it is detected too late. Early detection of lung cancer through low-dose computed tomography (CT Scan) has proven to be effective for detecting lung cancer in early stages when it is most treatable.
The Comprehensive Lung Cancer Screening Program at Mercy consists of annual screenings for those who are determined to be high-risk, as well as smoking cessation counseling and shared decision making with Mercy's experienced doctors.
Shared decision making is an important component of a comprehensive appointment as this allows both the patient and physician to discuss the benefits versus risks of screening.
Who should get a Lung Cancer Screening?
Lung cancer screening guidelines are recommended yearly for patients who meet all of the following criteria:
- Ages 50-77
- Current smoker or one who has quit within the last 15 years
- Smoked at least one pack a day for 20 years (or two packs a day for 10 years, etc.)
- Asymptomatic (no signs of lung cancer)
Patients who meet the above criteria should consult with their primary care provider about a potential referral to the specialists at The Lung Center at Mercy for a possible lung cancer screening.
Who should not get a Lung Cancer Screening?
Lung cancer screening is not appropriate for everyone. Some patients may require a diagnostic chest CT if they are experiencing the following symptoms:
- Chronic cough
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Coughing up blood (Hemoptysis)
These symptoms are often associated with lung cancer and should be discussed with your health care provider.
How is Lung Cancer Screening performed?
Lung cancer screening uses low-dose computed tomography, or LDCT to scan for lung disease. LCDT is a combination of X-ray techniques and computer technology that produces high quality images while reducing radiation doses to the patient.
The scan takes approximately 60 seconds to complete and then is reviewed by Mercy’s team of Board Certified radiologists to determine if there are any signs of lung disease or cancer.
You will be contacted regarding the results of your screening. If it is determined that there are nodules or other suspicious findings, your doctor will guide you through follow-up testing, diagnosis and any recommended treatments.
