Lung Cancer Screening
The UMC Cancer Center continues to advance cancer care with a cancer screening program that will improve the early detection and treatment of lung cancer in our region.
How do I know if I should be screened for lung cancer?
Currently, lung cancer screening is recommended for those between the ages of 50 and 80 who have a smoking history of 20 years or more (an average of one pack a day for 20 years, two packs a day for 10 years, etc.) and are current smokers or have quit in the last 15 years.
How does lung cancer screening work?
Lung cancer screening uses a low-dose CT or LDCT to detect lung cancer before symptoms occur, when the cancer is more treatable or even curable.
Think of it this way; lung cancer screening is just like a mammogram to check for breast cancer, or a colonoscopy to check for colon cancer. But in this case, it’s a CAT scan of your lungs to check for lung cancer.
Smoking Cessation Program
The treatment of lung cancer is less effective if you continue to smoke, which is why this screening program is closely tied to a smoking cessation program. The program at the UMC Cancer Center includes:
- UMC Behavioral Health Specialists trained to assist patients’ quitting efforts
- Increasing participants’ motivation to quit smoking
- We use the Breathe Easy and Stop Smoking Today (BESST) 8-week program to help patients quit
Before your screening appointment:
- Document any symptoms you are experiencing (even those that seem unrelated)
- Make a list of all medications, supplements, or vitamins you are taking
- Write down key personal information including stresses or recent life changes
- Have these documents ready: personal identification, insurance card and information if available
How to schedule an appointment:
Please call our lung navigator directly at: 806-775-8637
Lung Center of Excellence
In 2018, the Bonnie J. Addario Lung Cancer Foundation (ALCF), now the GO2Foundation for Lung Cancer, awarded UMC Cancer Center as a designated Care Continuum Centers of Excellence (CCCOE). This recognizes UMC Cancer Center for their team approach to patient-centered care. This care model includes:
- Early screening
- Tumor genetic testing to ensure appropriate treatment options
- Minimally invasive biopsy, surgical and radiation therapy techniques that reduce risk and improve patient quality of lie
- Access to new targeted therapies and immunotherapies
- Extensive patient education and support, including psychosocial and nutritional support
Learn more about the GO2Foundation.
