Low-Dose Lung CT Scan
Lung Cancer Screening What is a low-dose lung CT? A low-dose computed tomography (CT) scan of the lungs uses a small amount of radiation to provide images to detect the presence of nodules, masses, or other abnormalities that might indicate lung cancer. Why should I get one? The National Cancer Institute found that among current or former heavy smokers, those who received low-dose CT scans had a 20% lower risk of dying from lung cancer than those who received chest X-rays. Who should get one? Your doctor may recommend a low-dose lung CT scan if you are between the ages of 50 and 80, a current smoker or have quit within the past 15 years, and have a history of smoking the equivalent of one pack a day for 20 years. How can I get one? You can talk to your primary care provider about placing an order for a low-dose CT scan, or contact the following institutions to speak with a navigator for more information about the scan: UT Southwestern Phone: 214-645-3291 Accepts many insurance carriers for those who qualify for cancer screenings
Moncrief Cancer Institute
Parkland Health
Phone: 800-405-7739 Connects uninsured members of the community with cancer screenings in Fort Worth
Phone: 855-399-5864 Serves uninsured members of the community who reside in Dallas County
What if I am unsure of my eligibility? If you are not sure whether screening is recommended for you, please speak with your doctor, or scan the QR code located to the right of this text. This will take you to the American Lung Association’s Saved by the Scan quiz, designed to help you determine if you should get a low-dose lung CT scan. Saved by the Scan
For general cancer-related questions, please contact our Cancer Answer Line by emailing CancerAnswerLine@UTSouthwestern.edu or calling 833-722-6237.