It Only Takes 60 Seconds and Early Cancer Detection Could Save Your Life
It is estimated by the American Cancer Society that there will be 238,000 new lung cancer diagnoses in the U.S. in 2023. It is the leading case of cancer death for both men and women.
If you are at high risk for developing lung cancer, lung cancer screening at The George Washington University Hospital offers low-dose computerized tomography (CT) scans that can help doctors detect lung cancer in its earliest stages, when it is most treatable. In fact, a recent study by the National Cancer Institute showed that patients who were screened with these CT scans showed a 20 percent reduction in deaths from lung cancer than those who had chest X-rays.
You may be at high risk for developing lung cancer if:
- You are between 50 and 77 years old
- You have smoked a pack of cigarettes or more every day for at least 20 years
- You are a current smoker, or quit smoking less than 15 years ago
If you are a high-risk patient, you should have a baseline CT scan, then repeat annually.
Podcast: Should I Get a Lung Cancer Screening?
Keith D. Mortman, MD, FACS, FCCP, discusses the option for lung cancer screenings of those at high risk of developing the disease in this health education podcast. Since it often has few symptoms until the late stages, this screening can provide critical time for treatment.
Safe and Easy
Lung cancer screening at GW Hospital is performed with low-dose chest CTs with no contrast dyes and uses significantly less radiation than diagnostic CTs to promote patient safety. The scan itself only takes 60 seconds to complete and is covered by Medicare, DMV Medicaid and most insurance plans.
Screening Center of Excellence by GO2 for Lung Cancer
GW Hospital, in conjunction with the GW Cancer Center, has been named a Screening Center of Excellence by the GO2 foundation.
Lung Cancer Screening Resources
If you are interested in learning more about lung cancer screening and what it’s all about, please visit the following websites:
GW Medical Faculty Associates: Thoracic Surgery →
Incidental Lung Nodule Program
The Incidental Lung Nodule Program at GWU Hospital specializes in the evaluation, risk assessment and management of incidentally detected lung nodules on imaging studies. Our goal is to provide prompt and evidence-based care for patients with pulmonary nodules and ensure that they are followed appropriately for better patient outcomes.
Learn more about the Incidental Lung Nodule Program →
Schedule an Appointment for a Lung Cancer Screening
- For Lung Cancer Screening, call 1-855-GWLUNGS, option 1
- For Incidental Lung Nodule Program, call 1-855-GWLUNGS, option 2