LUNG CANCER SCREENING
Finding it early can save lives.
What you need to know
Lung cancer, the leading cause of cancer death in the U.S., often is not found until it has spread, making it more difficult to treat. But there is some good news for current and former heavy smokers. Studies have shown that lung cancer screening can save lives.
Legacy Cancer Institute is a comprehensive cancer program featuring doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating lung cancer. We are designated as a Center of Excellence by the Lung Cancer Alliance, and we rank among the nation's best cancer programs based on our outcomes for patients and the quality of our care.
Schedule your screening
To talk with a healthcare provider about lung cancer screening and schedule an appointment, call 503-413-8050.
Who should be screened
Legacy Cancer Institute agrees with the recommendations of the American Cancer Society, National Cancer Institute and the U.S. Preventive Task Force. Their guidelines state who is eligible for lung cancer screening and suggest where to get screened.
Smoking is the biggest risk factor for developing lung cancer.
Only heavy long-term smokers qualify for lung cancer screening. This includes adults ages 55 to 80 who have smoked a pack a day for 30 years (or the equivalent) AND those who currently smoke or have quit in the past 15 years.
Smoking history is calculated as the number of packs smoked per day multiplied by the number of years. For example: One pack per day X 20 years = 20 pack years.
Figure out your smoking history with this easy pack-year calculator
Screening should take place at a facility that offers a full range of follow-up testing options and a comprehensive lung cancer program.
By detecting signs of lung cancer early, before symptoms begin, doctors have a better chance of treating the disease.
Details about screening
Lung cancer screening involves a low-dose (low-radiation) CT scan annually. A CT scan is the only proven way of detecting lung cancer. If the first CT shows something not normal, a repeat CT in less than one year may be recommended.
More information
Reduce your risk
Why choose Legacy for lung cancer screening
National Institute of Health: National Lung Screening Trial
Schedule your screening
To talk with a healthcare provider about lung cancer screening and schedule an appointment, call 503-413-8050.
