Lung Cancer Screening Specialist
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ForeFront Radiology
Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology based out of Fresno, CA
Lung cancer is treatable when found early enough, but your prognosis isn’t as good if the cancer reaches an advanced stage. If you're at risk, lung cancer screening at ForeFront Radiology in Fresno, California, can help you avoid the potentially life-threatening consequences of this disease. Their board-certified interventional radiologists use state-of-the-art low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) to screen for the first signs of lung cancer. Call ForeFront Radiology for more information or book an appointment online today.
Lung Cancer Screening Q & A
What is lung cancer screening?
Lung cancer screening is a procedure the ForeFront Radiology team uses to assess patients with a significant risk of getting lung cancer who aren't showing any symptoms.
The screening involves a painless scan of your chest using low-dose computed tomography (LDCT). LDCT combines sophisticated X-ray technology with advanced computer software to create a series of cross-sectional images of your body.
LDCT can detect numerous abnormalities but uses around 90% less ionizing radiation than a standard chest CT scan. It's also a more effective method of reducing death from lung cancer than chest X-rays and sputum cytology (analyzing mucus from your lungs).
Why might I need lung cancer screening?
You might benefit from lung cancer screening if you're at high risk of developing lung cancer. This form of cancer is responsible for more deaths than any other, and mostly affects people who are or were smokers.
The risk increases according to how much you smoke and for how long. In addition to tobacco smoke, other factors that increase your risk of lung cancer include:
- Exposure to radon gas or asbestos
- Family history of lung cancer
- Having a chronic lung disease
Lung cancer is also more common in people over 50. If you have significant risk factors, call ForeFront Radiology for advice on lung cancer screening.
What happens at my lung cancer screening?
First, you lie on your back on a CT exam table. Your highly experienced technician may ask you to raise your arms above your head, and they may use pillows and straps to keep you in the correct position.
When the scan begins, the table moves quickly through the ring-shaped scanner to get in the right position, then moves slowly while the scan takes place. You need to hold your breath for 5-10 seconds.
What happens after my lung cancer screening?
If there are nodules in your lungs, there's only a 5% chance they're cancerous. However, it’s wise to have regular scans to monitor their growth.
If you have larger nodules, you might need to undergo a contrast-enhanced CT scan or a biopsy to analyze the nodule’s cells. Should your lung cancer screening find evidence of lung cancer, your provider can discuss the most appropriate treatment options with you.
Lung cancer screening isn't a substitute for quitting smoking in the fight against cancer, but it does enable you to receive treatment at an early stage, potentially saving your life. Call ForeFront Radiology to arrange your lung cancer screening or book an appointment online today.
