Until recently, there has been no reliable way to detect lung cancer in its earliest, most treatable stage. However, new findings revealed by the National Lung Screening Trial (NLST) show that lung cancer deaths dropped by 20% in individuals who underwent a low dose spiral CT scan compared to those screened solely by chest x-rays.
These findings are the impetus behind the development of Chester County Hospital's Lung Cancer Screening Program. Chester County Hospital's team of experts in thoracic surgery, pulmonary medicine, medical oncology, radiation oncology, pathology and radiology have developed a multidisciplinary program to provide early detection and treatment of lung cancer and to educate high risk individuals about the disease.
Michael Costello, MD
Hematology/Oncology at Chester County Hospital
The Importance of Low-Dose CT Lung Screening (LDCT)
Studies have shown that Low-Dose CT (LDCT) Lung Screening can lower the risk of death from lung cancer by 20% in people who are at high risk and has proven to be effective in detecting lung cancer early, when it's most treatable.
LDCT is recommended by the American Cancer Society, American Lung Association, National Cancer Institute and American College of Chest Physicians.
Low-Dose CT Lung Screening at Chester County Hospital in West Chester, PA follows the guidelines from the National Lung Screening Trial and is recommended for adults between the ages of 50 and 80 (55-77 if covered by Medicare) who:
- Have a "20-pack-year" history of smoking (A pack year is the number of packs of cigarettes smoked daily, multiplied by the number of years smoking, such as a pack a day for 20 years, or 2 packs a day for 10 years)
- Meet the above criteria and currently smoke or have quit within the last 15 years
- Have no symptoms or history of lung cancer
Please consult with your insurance carrier to verify payment coverage.
FAQs About Lung Screening at Chester County Hospital
- Am I Eligible for Lung Screening at Chester County Hospital?
Those who have symptoms of a lung condition at the time of screening, such as a new cough or shortness of breath, are not eligible. If you have had a chest CT within the past year, you should not have a Lung Screening until one year has passed from your last chest CT. You will need a prescription from your health care provider if this is the case.
- Do I need to have an LDCT lung screening exam every year?
Yes. If you are in a high-risk group, a Lung Screening exam is recommended every year until you reach age 80 (77 if covered by Medicare) .
- How is the exam performed?
LDCT lung screening is one of the easiest screening exams. No medications are given, and no needles are used. You must, however, be able to hold your breath for at least 6 seconds while the chest scan is being taken.
- How much does the lung creening cost?
Low-dose CT screening for lung cancer at Chester County Hospital is covered by a growing number of insurance plans. Patients should check with their insurance carrier to see if coverage is provided.
LUNG SCREENING PROGRAM INCLUDES:
- Low dose spiral CT scan
- CT scan reading by board-certified radiologist
- Results sent to the primary care physician
- Fast track appointment with a pulmonologist (if appropriate)
Michael Costello, MD
Hematology/Oncology at Chester County Hospital
MORE INFORMATION:
- For more information, you may call our Nurse Navigator at 610-738-2861
- To schedule a Low Dose CT Lung Screening, please call 610-431-5131
- For more information on our Smoking Cessation Programs, call 610-738-2300
APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE AT CHESTER COUNTY HOSPITAL LOCATIONS:
Chester County Hospital
701 East Marshall Street
West Chester, PA 19380
Fern Hill Medical Campus
915 Old Fern Hill Road
Building D, Ground Floor
West Chester, PA 19380
Penn Medicine Exton
The Commons at Oaklands
700 West Lincoln Highway
Exton, PA 19341
Penn Medicine Southern Chester County
455 Woodview Road, Suite 120
West Grove, PA 19390