lung screening test preparation

Overview

A lung screening test is a quick, painless scan (usually a low-dose CT scan) that looks for early signs of lung cancer in people who are at high risk. It can find cancer when it's small and easier to treat.

Lung screening is recommended for certain groups of people, such as those aged 55 to 80 with a heavy smoking history. Not everyone needs it, and your doctor can help decide if it's right for you.

It mainly affects people who have smoked many cigarettes for many years, or who stopped smoking within the last 15 years. Other risk factors include exposure to radon, asbestos, or a family history of lung cancer.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Lung screening is for people without symptoms. If you have any of these symptoms, tell your doctor before your screening appointment: a new cough that won't go away, coughing up blood, chest pain that doesn't improve, shortness of breath, or unexplained weight loss.

Causes

Main causes

• Lung cancer is most often caused by smoking tobacco. Other causes include exposure to radon gas, asbestos, and certain chemicals.

Risk factors

• Smoking cigarettes, cigars, or pipes for many years
• Being aged 50 or older
• Having a close family member with lung cancer
• Exposure to radon, asbestos, or diesel exhaust at work
• A history of chronic lung disease like COPD

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have any symptoms that might be lung cancer, such as coughing up blood or unexplained chest pain, see your doctor right away.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you are a long-term smoker or former smoker and are between 50 and 80 years old, talk to your doctor about whether lung screening is right for you.
• If you have a family history of lung cancer, discuss your risk with your doctor.

Diagnosis

Lung screening is not a diagnosis of lung cancer. It is a test to look for possible signs of cancer. If the scan shows something abnormal, you will need follow-up tests such as another scan or a biopsy.

Tests that may be done

• Low-dose CT (LDCT) scan: The main screening test. It takes detailed pictures of your lungs using a low amount of radiation.

What to expect at your appointment

You will lie on a narrow table that slides through a large, donut-shaped machine. You will need to hold your breath for a few seconds while the scan is taken. The whole test takes about 10 to 15 minutes. There is no pain, and you can go back to normal activities right away.

Treatment

If your lung screening test finds a suspicious spot, your doctor will explain the next steps. Treatment for lung cancer depends on the type and stage. Options may include surgery, radiation, or medicines that target cancer cells.

Self-care at home

• If your screening is normal, continue to live a healthy lifestyle and avoid smoking.
• If you need follow-up tests, try to stay calm and follow your doctor's advice.

Medical treatments

Treatments for lung cancer can include surgery to remove the cancer, radiation therapy to destroy cancer cells, and medicines such as chemotherapy or immunotherapy. Your care team will recommend a plan based on your specific situation.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery may be an option if the cancer is found early and has not spread. The type of surgery depends on the size and location of the tumour.

Living with this condition

If you have had a lung screening test and are waiting for results, try to keep up your normal routines. If more tests are needed, your doctor will guide you through each step. Remember that most abnormal findings turn out not to be cancer.

Lifestyle tips

• If you smoke, consider quitting. Your doctor can help you find support.
• Stay active and eat a balanced diet to support your overall health.
• Avoid exposure to second-hand smoke and other lung irritants.

Diet and exercise

Eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help your body stay strong. Gentle exercise like walking can improve your mood and lung function. Always talk to your doctor before starting a new exercise programme.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Waiting for screening results or follow-up tests can be stressful. It is normal to feel anxious or worried. Talk to your doctor or a counsellor if you need support. Remember that early detection gives you the best chance of effective treatment.

Prevention

Lung cancer cannot always be prevented, but you can lower your risk by not smoking, avoiding second-hand smoke, and limiting exposure to harmful chemicals and radon.

Screening programmes

Lung screening tests are used to find lung cancer early, not to prevent it. However, early detection can prevent the cancer from growing and spreading. Discuss with your doctor if screening is appropriate for you.

Complications

If left untreated

• If lung cancer is not found early and treated, it can grow and spread to other parts of the body.
• Advanced lung cancer can cause serious breathing problems, pain, and weight loss.

Long-term outlook

When lung cancer is caught early through screening, the chances of successful treatment are much higher. Many people with early-stage lung cancer live long, healthy lives. Even if cancer is advanced, treatments are improving all the time and can help control the disease.

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