Early Detection at Norton Thoracic Institute
Screening for Lung Cancer
An Insight into the Process
When you join the Norton Thoracic Institute Lung Cancer Screening Program, the procedure is straightforward. The CT scan is brief and pain-free. Once completed, an extensive team of specialists—including thoracic radiologists, surgeons, cardiologists, pulmonologists, oncologists, internal medicine experts, and infectious disease specialists—will review your scan. They will collectively draft a report, detailing findings and any medical recommendations. Your primary doctor will receive this report, and a representative from our team will contact you to discuss the results.
Lung cancer screenings change lives
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States, among both men and women. This is a perfect time to be proactive and get a lung cancer screening, which consists of a simple 60 second CT scan which is painless and covered 100% by Medicare and private insurers if the individual is eligible as per current guidelines. Dr. Jasmine Huang, a thoracic surgeon with Norton Thoracic Institute at Dignity Health St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center, recently spoke with Arizona Daily Mix to raise awareness about lung cancer screening and treatment options.
Lung cancer remains one of the leading causes of death, but early detection can make all the difference. If you have a history of smoking, the Lung Cancer Screening Program at Norton Thoracic Institute is designed specifically for you. Medicare and most insurance companies now cover this screening for people who meet certain criteria.
With the help of low-dose computed tomography (CT) scans, this program aims to catch lung cancer in its earliest, most treatable stages. Research from the National Cancer Institute indicates that these CT scans have contributed to a 20% reduction in lung cancer-related deaths. Another study estimated that early detection and treatment of lung cancer could save more than 70,000 lives every year in the United States.
Am I a Candidate for Screening?
If you fit the following criteria, you may be a good candidate:
- Aged between 50 and 80.
- Have a 20-pack-year smoking history (e.g., smoking a pack daily for 20 years or two packs daily for 10 years).
- Currently smoke or quit within the past 15 years.
If you meet these qualifications, talk to your physician about getting a referral for a lung cancer screening. For more information about the program or to make a self-referral, call Norton Thoracic Institute at (602) 406-4000.