Lung Cancer Screening Guidelines
Lung cancer is a common cancer among males in Malaysia and the 3rd most common cancer among the general population.
Early lung cancer can be detected through Low Dose CT scans. However, the best way to prevent lung cancer is to STOP SMOKING.
What is low dose computed tomography (CT)?
A low dose CT scan is a preventative health check that uses small amounts of radiation to create a detailed 3D picture of your lungs.
It helps to find something before you know it's there and before you display any symptoms.
Low dose CT scans are conducted in the radiology department where you will lie on a table and raise your arms above your head. Then the table will slide into the scanner.
Lung Cancer Screening:
Are You Eligible?
50-80 Years Old
Currently Smoking
Quit Within The Past 15 Years
Have at Least a 20-Pack-Year
Smoking History
Number of cigarettes
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Number of years
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If you have20or greater
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*If you think you meet all of these criteria, talk to your doctor about being screened once a year for up to three years in a row.
Symptoms of Lung Cancer
A new cough that doesn't go away
Coughing up blood
Shortness of breath
Chest pain
Hoarseness
Unexplained weight loss
Lung cancer screening has potential benefits and harms.
If 1,000 eligible individuals are screened 3 times,
it is estimated that:
779 will have normal low dose CT scans
167 will have a positive scan and need an extra scan, but will not have lung cancer
13 will need an invasive procedure to rule out after an extra scan
34 will be diagnosed with lung cancer
4 will be diagnosed with lung cancer but would not have caused illness or death(over-diagnosis)
Thanks to screening, 3 will not die from lung cancer
Benefits of low dose CT lung cancer screening
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Effective for diagnosing lung cancer at its earliest and most treatable stage |
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Lower chances of dying from cancer |
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CT is fast, painless and non invasive |
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Can detect many other lung disease and abnormalities |
For more information or to make appointment,
please contact Sunway Wellness Centre.
Lung Cancer Screening Guidelines
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