A lung scan is an essential diagnostic tool, which is used for early detection of lung diseases, specifically lung cancer. The lung scan procedure helps in identifying the potential issues before any symptoms. The early identification significantly improves the treatment process to prevent lung cancer in future. But who should get this? And what is the process of the lung scan? Are you concerned about your lung health? In this blog, we will be explaining a step-by-step guide to lung screening.
Who should go for a Lung Cancer Screening?
A lung scan or lung cancer screening is extremely important for people, who are with higher risk factors. The lung scan procedure is ideal for some people, including:
- People in the age group of 50 to 80 must go for lung screening.
- Those who have a history of smoking either former or current must go for it.
- It is extremely important for people who have smoked about 20 packs per year.
- Former smokers who have a history, but have quit smoking within the last 15 years.
- Those individuals who have a family history of lung cancer are at an increased risk of lung cancer.
- People dealing with cancerous substances such as asbestos, arsenic, cadmium, and petroleum products.
The lung scan may avert the risk through an earlier diagnosis. Thus, it may increase life expectancy. However, there is a dire need to bring a change in the diet and lifestyle to prevent the risk of lung cancer.
What is the Lung Scan Procedure?
The lung scan or lung scan procedure employs low-dose CT scan technology to capture the images of the lungs. This scan helps in detecting early signs of lung cancer. The patient is positioned inside the CT scanner and lies flat on a table. For a smooth scan proces, the patient is advised to hold their breath for a few seconds. While the scanner moves around the chest and captures high-resolution images.
A lung scan is a non-invasive procedure. It is completely painless and quick. The lung scan procedure maximum takes about 30 minutes. There is no use of needles or incisions. Therefore, there is no need for recovery time. Hence, patients may start their daily routine right after the scan. The effectiveness of lung scans has made them an effective tool for diagnosis.
What should I Expect from a Lung Scan Result?
A lung specialist interprets the lung scan report. The specialist carefully analyzes the images and detects early signs of lung cancer including calcium deposits or nodules. The report is usually divided into three groups based on issues. A low-risk report means that there are zero to minimal signs of cancer. A medium-risk report hints at the presence of some abnormalities. This calls for further monitoring and testing. A high-risk report means that the patient needs immediate treatment and medication.
The scan helps in detecting the early signs of cancer. This is prevented through proper treatment and medication. The treatment also calls for bringing changes in the lifestyle.
Via Scan of Las Colinas: Your Trusted Partner for Lung Scans
Do you want to take control of your lung health? Or are you exposed to dangerous chemicals and want to prevent any lung disease? Via Scan of Las Colinas is your trusted partner for lung scans and lung scan procedures. The lab is equipped with the latest technology and tools to assess the lungs' health. The lung scan is completely painless, which may avert the risk of high pain in the future.
