If you smoked, a Lung Cancer Screening could save your life

Lung cancer is currently the leading cause of cancer death in both men and women in the United States and early detection is the key to survival.  Recently Ozarks Medical Center (OMC) has begun offering lung cancer screenings with the latest imaging technologies.  For eligible individuals, annual screenings are covered by Medicare and private insurance.

Current and former smokers age 55 to 77, who have smoked within the past 15 years, with a history of smoking at least one pack of cigarettes a day for 30 years or more, should consider getting screened.  Both private insurers and Medicare offer coverage for annual LDCT screening for lung cancer among eligible high-risk individuals who meet all the eligibility criteria.

If you do have certain symptoms, like a chronic cough, it could be a sign that you have a lung condition that should be evaluated and treated before the screening.  This is to avoid any potential false results.

As with all medical procedures, LDCT is not completely without risks.  Your primary care physician can assist you in weighing the benefits and potential risks - to make the best decision for you.  If you choose to have a screening done, it is important that you have it done at a clinic with specialized medical expertise.

OMC’s lung screening team is made up of a dedicated team of specialists that includes radiologists, pulmonologists, cardiothoracic surgeon, and oncologists. OMC performs screenings with the latest imaging technologies, such as low dose computed tomography (CT) scans, using trusted imaging techniques (protocols) that lead to accurate results, offering the expertise of experienced lung cancer experts when necessary.  They offer a complete range of services for people at risk for lung cancer, including support to help you quit smoking, and the latest lung cancer treatments.