Detect Lung Cancer Sooner

Early detection is critical to surviving lung cancer. If you are a current or former smoker and meet inclusion criteria, you should consider a low-dose CT lung screening as an early detection tool for lung cancer. A study by the National Cancer Institute has shown that screened patients who qualify for this test (see below for screening criteria) have a 20% lower death rate from lung cancer.

How does a Lung Screening work?

The screening process consists of lying in a CT scanner for several minutes while images are taken. No injection or contrast is usually needed. A computer will create images of your lungs from the scan. The entire procedure, including check-in usually takes about 30 minutes.

The screening is done in a way to minimize radiation exposure, and has been determined as safe. Radiation emissions are about ¼ the exposure of a regular chest CT scan.

How do I schedule a Lung Screening?

Carson Tahoe’s Great Basin Imaging is the only screening location in Carson, Douglas and Lyon County. Physician referral is not necessary. Please review the screening criteria below before scheduling an appointment. Call (775) 445-5500 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

What are the screening criteria?

Patients who have been shown to benefit from lung cancer screening met the following criteria:

• Age: Between the ages of 55-74
• Active or former smoker with a 30 pack/year history
• Former smokers must have quit within 15 years

General health exclusions include patients with metallic implants or devices in the chest or back, requirement for home oxygen supplementation, and prior history of lung cancer or other cancerous symptoms.

If you have further questions about screening requirements, please call our Health Navigator at (775) 445-5169.

What’s the cost?

The cost is $149.

Currently, this is not considered a covered service by most third-party payers, so for cash pay patients, we have reduced the price to $149. This price includes exam and radiologist interpretation. A physician order is not required.

How do I get the results?

Patients will receive results within 24 hours from a Carson Tahoe Health medical professional. Following a negative diagnosis, it is generally recommended that lung screening be repeated once a year for two years. If your test is positive or indeterminate, there may be need for a follow up scan in six months, a needle biopsy, or a referral to a pulmonologist and/or surgeon.

How can I prevent lung cancer?

Smoking is the number one cause of lung cancer. It also plays a role in numerous other diseases such as stroke and heart disease. If you currently smoke and need help quitting, Carson Tahoe Cardiology offers a Smoking Cessation program, led by Carmella Downing, PAC. The program offers support, education, information and motivation to quit for good! The class focuses on preparation, quitting and maintenance. A new class starts every other month, call (775) 445-7651 to inquire about the next start date.

Click here to learn more ways to prevent lung cancer.

Dr. David Landis is a board certified Radiologist with Great Basin Imaging.