At Yuma Regional Medical Center, we are strong advocates for cancer screenings. With early detection of cancers, patients often have better outcomes as the disease is in a easier to treat stage.
We conduct lung screening exams using a low-dose computerized tomography (LDCT) scan. This non-invasive exam involves an x-ray machine that uses a low dose of radiation to make detailed images of the lungs. It takes less than 10 minutes, making it one of the easiest screening exams you can have.
Much like a mammogram or colonoscopy, an LDCT scan detects cancer before a patient develops any symptoms. Early detection is crucial because it makes cancer easier to treat. Your insurance provider may cover the cost of the screening. Or, if you are on Medicare, 100 percent of the cost may be covered. We will go over any financial obligation, if any, with you before scheduling an appointment.
About one in four LDCT lung screenings will detect something in the lung that may require additional imaging or evaluation. Most of the time, these findings are non-cancerous lung nodules. However, if a small lung nodule is found to be cancerous, the cancer can be cured more than 90 percent of the time.
Risk factors for lung cancer
If you are at high risk for developing lung cancer, scheduling a yearly screening exam before any symptoms appear may lower your risk by as much as 20 percent. People at high risk for developing lung cancer are those:
- Between the ages of 50-80 and
- Smoked an average of one pack of cigarettes, cigars, or similar products per day for twenty (20) years or more, or
- Smoked an average of two packs a day for ten (10) years or more
You should still get screened regularly even if you've stopped smoking.
Recommended frequency of lung screenings
We recommend that individuals at high risk for lung cancer have an LDCT lung screening exam every year until they reach the age of 80. Those who have symptoms of a lung condition, such as a new cough or shortness of breath they have never experienced before, are not eligible for LDCT screening and should see their physician immediately.
More information and getting scheduled
If you think you qualify and have questions, or if you would like to schedule a screening, please call 928-726-LUNG (5864).
LDCT lung screenings are conducted at the following location:
Parkview Medical Plaza
Entrance 2
1501 W. 24th Street, Suite 203
Yuma, AZ 85364