Lung screening is a test to look for signs of lung cancer if you are an otherwise healthy person. The goal of lung screening is to detect lung cancer at a very early stage — when it’s more likely to be cured. Studies show lung screening reduces your risk of dying of lung cancer.
Lung screening is available if you are at risk of lung cancer, which includes the following criteria:
Between the age of 55 and 80, a current or past smoker, and smoked a pack a day for 30 or more years; OR
Between the age of 50 and 80, a current or past smoker, and smoked a pack a day for 20 or more years AND have at least one of the following:
Lung cancer more than five years ago and have been cured
A father, mother, sister or brother with history of lung cancer
Been told you have chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD), chronic bronchitis, emphysema or exposure to asbestos
Discuss the benefits and risks of lung screening with your doctor. Together you can review your risk of lung cancer and decide whether screening is right for you.
Not all treatments, tests and services are available at all Mayo Clinic Health System locations. Check with your preferred location in advance.
