PNH: Why Lung Cancer Screenings Save Lives
From Piedmont Newnan Hospital
Known as the silent killer due to its lack of symptoms in early stages, lung cancer is the second most common type of cancer, and statistically the most fatal. The American Cancer Society estimates a total of 238,340 newly diagnosed cases in 2023, making it all the more crucial that those at risk receive screening as soon as possible.
“The most effective way to fight lung cancer is to begin treatment early on,” says William Courson, D.O., who specializes in family medicine, at Piedmont Physicians at Premier Medical in Newnan. “But we can’t do so if you aren’t aware you even have it. Following the guidelines, getting screened if you’re at risk—it’s all about staying on top of your health.”
Who is Eligible for a Lung Cancer Screening?
To qualify:
• Age 50-77
• Smoking history of 20 pack years (one pack a day for 20 years or two packs a day for 10 years)
• Current smoker or stopped in the last 15 years or less
• No current pulmonary symptoms, such as worsening cough, coughing up blood, or shortness of breath
• No unexplained weight loss
So, how does it work? The screening process itself is a straightforward CT scan—no injections or medications are involved. The screening-eligible patient will simply lie still on the table that will slide them through the doughnut-shaped scanner, taking only 20 seconds to complete. Afterward, your physician will then receive your results and follow up with you via phone call to discuss next steps.
In the event that your CT scan comes back with normal results (hooray!), our recommendation is for you to continue annual CT scans so that we can monitor any developments, or ensure you’re actually in the clear. Your nurse navigator will guide you through the entire process and remind you when it is time for your next screening or for additional tests.
*Please note that 30 to 40 percent of lung cancer CT scans show abnormal results. Most of these results will be noncancerous (benign) but abnormal scans require close follow-up and further testing.
If you think you may be at risk for lung cancer, contact with your primary care physician to see if you meet the eligibility criteria for a low-dose CT (LDCT) screening exam.
