Lung cancer is the second most common type of cancer and the leading cause of cancer death in the U.S. However, lung cancer is also one of the most preventable cancers. Cancer often develops in the lungs from breathing in toxic chemicals. The number one cause of inhaling toxic chemicals is smoking. For smokers, the best way to prevent the disease is to quit. Annual lung cancer screenings are a way to reduce the risk of dying from lung cancer.
Talk to your doctor to discuss your chances of developing lung cancer. Those who are at an increased risk of lung cancer are:
- Adults aged 50 – 80 years old
- Current smokers or former smokers, who have a 20 pack per year smoking history and currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years.
Lung cancer screening is covered by Medicare for patients 50-77 years old and most commercial insurance plans cover it for patients 55-80 years old. Typically, there is no out-of-pocket cost for low-dose CT lung screening, but confirm with your health insurance provider.