CT Screening for Lung Cancer Now Available at PCMC

11/24/2014

In order to detect lung cancer in high-risk individuals, Ponca City Medical Center is now offering low-radiation-dose CT (computed tomography) screening for lung cancer.

Lung cancer is by far the leading cause of cancer death in both men and women the United States, and Ponca City Medical Center is now offering early detection screenings to help catch cases earlier and save more lives. There are more options available for successful treatment when lung cancer is diagnosed in the early stages before the disease escapes the lung.

Traditional X-rays provide a 2-dimensional view of the chest, showing not only the lungs, but the heart, bone and soft tissue – all of which can mask abnormalities. Low-dose CT lung scans create a detailed, 3-D image, giving doctors a clearer, unobstructed view of the lungs – and the ability to detect tiny nodules that would often not be visible on a chest X-ray. Most insurance companies do not cover these screenings. The cost for CT Lung Cancer Screening is $175, plus the radiologist’s interpretation fee.

Lung screenings are designed for people 55 to 74 years old who have smoked an average of a pack a day for 30 years, who are currently smoking or who quit less than 15 years ago. Others, who have smoked less, but have additional risk factors, are also offered the screenings.

Talk to your doctor to see if a CT screening for lunch cancer is appropriate for you. A physician’s order is required for a CT lung cancer screening.

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