Lung cancer screening CT awareness

Overview

Lung cancer screening CT is a low-dose CT scan (a special X-ray that creates detailed images of your lungs) used to find lung cancer early in people who are at high risk but have no symptoms. Finding cancer early makes it more treatable.

Lung cancer is common, especially among people who smoke or used to smoke. Screening is not for everyone; it is offered to those at highest risk.

Lung cancer screening is primarily for adults aged 50 to 80 who have a significant smoking history (for example, a pack a day for 20 years or more) and who currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• A cough that does not go away or gets worse
• Chest pain that is often worse with deep breathing, coughing, or laughing
• Shortness of breath
• Coughing up blood or rust-colored sputum (spit)
• Hoarseness
• Unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite
• Feeling very tired all the time
• Repeated lung infections like pneumonia or bronchitis

Symptoms in children

• Lung cancer is very rare in children. If symptoms occur, they may include a persistent cough, chest pain, or difficulty breathing.

Symptoms in older adults

• In older adults, symptoms are similar to those in younger adults. However, they may be mistaken for other conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or heart disease.

Causes

Main causes

• Smoking cigarettes, cigars, or pipes is the leading cause of lung cancer.
• Long-term exposure to secondhand smoke.
• Exposure to radon gas (a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can build up in homes).
• Exposure to asbestos, arsenic, diesel exhaust, and other cancer-causing substances at work or in the environment.

Risk factors

• Heavy smoking history (the more years you smoke and the more packs per day, the higher the risk).
• Age over 50.
• Family history of lung cancer in a close relative.
• Personal history of chronic lung diseases like COPD or pulmonary fibrosis.
• Previous radiation therapy to the chest for other cancers.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you cough up any amount of blood, see a doctor right away or go to an urgent care center.
• If you have sudden, severe chest pain or trouble breathing, call your local emergency number.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you are between 50 and 80 years old and have a heavy smoking history, talk to your doctor about whether lung cancer screening is right for you.
• If you have a persistent cough that lasts more than three weeks, make an appointment to discuss it.

Diagnosis

Lung cancer screening is done with a low-dose CT scan. This is a special X-ray that takes many detailed pictures of your lungs, using much less radiation than a regular CT scan. It is quick and painless.

Tests that may be done

• Low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scan of the chest
• If the scan finds something abnormal, you may need additional tests such as a follow-up CT scan, a PET scan, or a biopsy (taking a small sample of lung tissue to check for cancer cells).

What to expect at your appointment

You will lie on a table that slides into a large, donut-shaped machine. The scan takes only a few minutes. You do not need to undress or drink contrast dye. You will be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds. The test is painless and does not require any special preparation.

Treatment

If lung cancer is found through screening or symptoms, treatment depends on the stage (how far it has spread), the type of lung cancer, and your overall health. Your healthcare team will discuss options with you.

Self-care at home

• If you smoke, get help to quit. Smoking after a diagnosis can make treatments less effective.
• Eat a balanced diet to maintain strength and energy.
• Stay as active as your body allows, with your doctor's approval.
• Follow up with all appointments and tests as recommended.

Medical treatments

Treatment options may include surgery to remove the cancer, radiation therapy (high-energy rays to kill cancer cells), chemotherapy (medicines that kill cancer cells), immunotherapy (medicines that help your immune system fight cancer), and targeted therapy (medicines that attack specific changes in cancer cells). Your doctor will explain which approaches are suitable for your situation.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is often an option when lung cancer is found early and has not spread outside the lung. The surgeon may remove a small part of the lung, a lobe, or the entire lung, depending on the size and location of the tumor.

Living with this condition

After a lung cancer diagnosis, you will have regular appointments with your healthcare team to monitor your health, manage side effects of treatment, and adjust your care as needed. It is important to communicate openly about any symptoms or concerns.

Lifestyle tips

• Quit smoking if you haven't already. Ask your doctor about support programs or medications to help.
• Avoid secondhand smoke and other lung irritants.
• Stay physically active as much as possible; gentle activities like walking can help maintain strength and mood.
• Get enough rest and manage stress with relaxation techniques or counselling.

Diet and exercise

A healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can support your immune system and energy levels. Light exercise, such as walking or stretching, can improve your quality of life. Always talk to your doctor before starting a new exercise routine.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

A lung cancer diagnosis can cause fear, sadness, and anxiety. It is normal to feel overwhelmed. Many people find it helpful to talk to a counsellor, join a support group, or share feelings with family and friends. Remember, you are not alone.

Prevention

You can reduce your risk of lung cancer by not smoking, avoiding secondhand smoke, testing your home for radon, and limiting exposure to other cancer-causing substances at work or in the environment. Screening does not prevent cancer, but it helps find it early when it is easier to treat.

Screening programmes

Lung cancer screening with low-dose CT is recommended for people aged 50 to 80 with a heavy smoking history. Talk to your doctor to see if you qualify for screening. Regular screening can catch cancer at an early stage.

Complications

If left untreated

• If lung cancer is not treated, it can grow and spread to other parts of the body (metastasise), leading to serious health problems such as fluid around the lungs, difficulty breathing, severe pain, and eventually organ failure.

Long-term outlook

The outlook for lung cancer depends on the stage at diagnosis. When caught early through screening, the chances of successful treatment and long-term survival are much higher. Even for advanced cancers, new treatments are improving outcomes and quality of life. Your healthcare team can give you a clearer picture based on your specific situation.

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