What is a Low Dose CT scan?

The Low Dose Computerized Tomography Scan (Low Dose CT) is a very detailed screening used to identify lung cancers or abnormalities with a much higher resolution than a regular scan. A Low Dose CT scan rotates in a spiral motion, continuously taking several images of the lungs. This scan can reveal abnormalities in the lungs that may be as small as grain of rice, while a traditional x-ray would not be able to show the tumour until it is much larger. 

Risk Factors for Lung Cancer

Smoking causes the majority of lung cancer. But lung cancer also occurs in people who never smoked and in those who never had prolonged exposure to second-hand smoke. In these cases, there may be no clear cause of lung cancer.

Who should be screened for lung cancer?

The American Cancer Society recommends annual lung cancer screening with a low-dose CT scan for apparently healthy patients aged 55 to 74 years who have at least a 30–pack‐year smoking history (who have smoked at least one pack of cigarettes per day for 30 years or two packs a day for 15 years) and who currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years.

Screening is also recommended for people who have been exposed to toxic substances and environmental pollution including cigarettes smoke, asbestos, radon, arsenic, radiation, and other chemicals.

Why Choose Low Dose CT Screening at FV Hospital?

Low Dose CT scan makes it possible for doctors to detect even the smallest lesions in the lungs, as well as tumours that would normally be too small for a traditional x-ray to identify. The smaller the tumour is when it is detected, the less likely the cancer cells have spread to other parts of the body. Early detection means more treatment options and a higher chance of survival. Additionally, a low dose CT scan takes considerably less time  than a traditional CT, and is less harmful to patients due to the low dose of radiation.