How is Lung Cancer Screening done ? Tests and Full Body Checkups

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How is Lung Cancer Screening done ?

Lung cancer screening is typically done using a test called low-dose computed tomography (LDCT). LDCT is a type of X-ray that uses lower doses of radiation than a standard chest CT scan. It can detect small abnormalities in the lungs that may indicate early-stage lung cancer.

Here’s an overview of the lung cancer screening process:

Eligibility Criteria: Lung cancer screening is generally recommended for individuals who are at high risk for developing lung cancer. High-risk criteria often include a history of heavy smoking, typically defined as a smoking history of 30 pack-years (one pack-year is equivalent to smoking one pack of cigarettes per day for one year), and current smokers or those who quit within the last 15 years.

Discussion with Healthcare Provider: Before undergoing lung cancer screening, individuals should have a discussion with their healthcare provider to assess their eligibility and discuss the potential benefits and risks of screening.

LDCT Scan: If deemed eligible, the individual will undergo a low-dose CT scan of the chest. The LDCT scan takes detailed cross-sectional images of the lungs, allowing doctors to identify any abnormalities or suspicious nodules.

Radiologist Evaluation: A radiologist will carefully examine the images to identify any nodules or other abnormalities. Nodules are categorized based on size, shape, and other characteristics.

Follow-up and Monitoring: Depending on the results, individuals may be categorized as having low, moderate, or high risk for lung cancer. Further diagnostic tests or periodic follow-up screenings may be recommended for those with suspicious findings.

Note that while lung cancer screening can detect cancer at an earlier, more treatable stage, it also has limitations, including the possibility of false-positive results that may lead to unnecessary follow-up tests or procedures. 

Therefore, the decision to undergo screening should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional based on an individual’s risk factors and overall health. ( Know more about- Respiratory Failure )

What are the tests done in LC Screening ?

The primary test used in lung cancer screening is low-dose computed tomography (LDCT). LDCT is a type of X-ray that creates detailed cross-sectional images of the lungs. This imaging technique is effective in detecting small abnormalities, such as nodules or tumours, at an early stage. LDCT is the recommended screening method for individuals at high risk of developing lung cancer.

Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the tests involved in lung cancer screening:

Low-Dose Computed Tomography (LDCT):

• • • LDCT is the main screening test for lung cancer.
    • It uses X-rays to create detailed, three-dimensional images of the lungs.
    • The term “low-dose” indicates that the amount of radiation used is lower than that of a standard chest CT scan.

Sputum Cytology:

• • • Sputum cytology involves examining a sample of mucus (sputum) coughed up from the lungs to check for cancer cells.
    • While this test is not as sensitive as imaging studies, it may be used in some cases.

Biopsy:

• • If a suspicious nodule or mass is identified on the LDCT scan, a biopsy may be recommended to determine whether it is cancerous.
  • Biopsy procedures can include bronchoscopy, where a thin tube with a camera is passed through the airways to collect tissue samples, or a needle biopsy, where a needle is used to extract a sample from the lung tissue.

LC screening is typically recommended for individuals at high risk, such as those with a significant smoking history. Screening is not generally recommended for the general population due to the potential for false positives and the associated risks of unnecessary invasive procedures.

The decision to undergo LC screening and the choice of specific tests should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional, taking into account individual risk factors and overall health. Regular follow-up and monitoring may be recommended based on the results of screening tests. ( Know more about- What is Lung Cancer ? )

LC Screening is part of full body checkups ?

Lung cancer screening is typically not a routine part of a general or full-body checkup. Full-body checkups, also known as comprehensive health assessments or preventive health screenings, often include a combination of tests and examinations to assess overall health and screen for common health conditions.

LC screening is usually recommended for individuals who are at high risk of developing lung cancer, such as those with a significant smoking history. The screening process typically involves a low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scan of the chest to detect early signs of lung cancer.

The decision to include lung cancer screening in a full-body checkup is generally based on individual risk factors, and it should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional.

Who is at high risk of developing lung cancer ?

Individuals at high risk of developing lung cancer are typically those with specific risk factors, with a history of smoking being the most significant contributor. 

The primary risk factors for lung cancer include:

Smoking: Cigarette smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer. People who smoke or have a history of heavy smoking are at a significantly higher risk. The risk increases with the duration of smoking and the number of cigarettes smoked per day.

Age: The risk of lung cancer increases with age. Most cases are diagnosed in individuals over the age of 65.

Family History: Individuals with a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) who has had lung cancer may be at a higher risk.

Exposure to Radon Gas: Radon is a radioactive gas that occurs naturally in soil and rock. Prolonged exposure to elevated levels of radon in indoor air can increase the risk of lung cancer.

Occupational Exposure: Certain occupational exposures to carcinogens, such as asbestos, arsenic, chromium, nickel, and others, can elevate the risk of lung cancer.

Previous History of Lung Cancer: Individuals who have had lung cancer in the past are at an increased risk of developing a second primary lung cancer.

Personal History of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): Chronic lung diseases, such as COPD, can increase the risk of lung cancer.

Exposure to Secondhand Smoke: Non-smokers exposed to secondhand smoke also have an increased risk of lung cancer.

While these factors are associated with an increased risk, not everyone with these risk factors will develop lung cancer, and individuals without these risk factors can still develop the disease. 

Lung cancer screening, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT), is generally recommended for individuals at high risk based on a combination of these factors.

If you are concerned about your risk of developing lung cancer, it’s advisable to discuss your individual risk factors with a healthcare professional. Get lung cancer screening done and full body checkups at H N Reliance Hospital Mumbai done.