Lung cancer screening is a test used to detect lung cancer before any symptoms appear. People who currently smoke or formerly smoked are at higher risk for lung cancer. The American Cancer Society recommends yearly lung cancer screening with a low-dose CT scan (LDCT) for some of these people (American Lung Association, 2022).
The American Cancer Society advises that health care providers, and people at increased risk for lung cancer, follow the recently updated recommendations for annual lung cancer screening from the US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), or the American College of Chest Physicians.
These organizations recommend yearly lung cancer screening with LDCT scans for people who:
In addition, it’s important that people who are going to be screened:
References:
American Cancer Society. (2022). Lung Cancer Screening Guidelines and Screening Criteria. Retrieved on March 29, 2022 from https://www.cancer.org/health-care-professionals/american-cancer-society-prevention-early-detection-guidelines/lung-cancer-screening-guidelines.html.
The Chronic Disease Work Group’s strategies for tobacco policy and lung cancer screenings target adults ages 45 to 64 in the 28601 zip code. Community members age 45 to 64 in the 28601 zip code had higher rates of lung cancer deaths, emergency department visits for chronic lower respiratory disease, and tobacco use.
The Chronic Disease Work Group’s action plan includes the following strategies related to lung cancer screenings. Action steps related to the following strategies are discussed and updated during monthly work group meetings.
Strategies: Lung Cancer Screening
Screening education for the community and public about why lung cancer screening is a beneficial choice.
Promotion and education of lung cancer screenings for providers.
Policy Agenda: Tobacco and E-cigarette Free Lifestyles
In the fall of 2021, the Chronic Disease Work Group crafted the following policy statement as part of LiveWell Catawba's overall policy agenda supporting health and wellness in Catawba County.