Low-dose helical CT screening for lung cancer available at IU Health
An IU Health Release
INDIANAPOLIS –Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death not only in the U.S. but also among Hoosiers. Both the incidence rate and mortality rate of lung cancer in Indiana are well above the national averages at 15 percent and 16 percent, respectively, accounting for more than 4,000 Hoosier deaths in 2008 alone.
To help combat this epidemic, Indiana University Health Cancer Centers are now offering screening using low-dose computed tomography (CT). A 2011 National Cancer Institute-sponsored trial demonstrated this technique’s ability to detect smaller nodules than X-rays or CT scans, resulting in a 20 percent decrease in lung cancer mortality.
Eligibility criteria:
- Must be older than 55.
- Must have at least a 30 pack year smoking history.
- “Pack year” is calculated by multiplying the number of packs of cigarettes smoked per day by the number of years spent smoking.
- If a former smoker, must not have quit more than 15 years ago.
- Must not have had a CT scan in the last 18 months.
Patients with a positive scan will be referred to the appropriate clinic for follow-up; all patients will meet with a smoking cessation specialist.
Low-dose helical CT scans will be offered at IU Health University Hospital in Indianapolis and IU Health North Hospital in Carmel as well as other locations in the near future. Those who meet the eligibility criteria should call 1-855-293-LUNG or 317-274-LUNG to schedule a screening.
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About Indiana University Health Named among the “Best Hospitals in America” by U.S. News & World Report for 15 consecutive years, Indiana University Health is dedicated to providing a unified standard of preeminent, patient-centered care. A unique partnership with Indiana University School of Medicine – one of the nation’s leading medical schools – gives our highly skilled physicians access to innovative treatments using the latest research and technology. Discover the strength at iuhealth.org.