Lung Cancer Screening

Early detection to help save lives

Improve Lung Cancer Survival with Early Detection

Lung cancer is the No. 1 cause of cancer death among men and women in the United States. But with early detection, survival rates increase dramatically. Nearly 90% of people with the disease will live five years or more if doctors find and treat a tumor while it’s still small and has not spread.

Lung cancer screening at Beverly Hospital makes early detection easier. It’s designed for people at high risk for lung cancer and uses a low-dose computed tomograghy (CT) scan. This test is the best way to find lung cancer at its earliest possible stage, before you experience symptoms. This is the time when treatment tends to be most effective.

At Beverly Hospital, we’ve established a Center of Excellence for lung cancer screening to ensure you receive the highest quality screening and care. Screening is quick and easy. More important, however, it might save your life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Learn what to expect from your lung screening at Beverly Hospital.

Does insurance cover lung cancer screening?

Medicare covers low-dose CT lung cancer screenings for people 55 to 77 years of age who meet the eligibility criteria. Additionally, the Affordable Care Act requires that private insurers cover CT lung screening for all those at high risk.

We work with you to determine the full extent of your insurance coverage.

How often should I be screened?

The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends yearly lung cancer screenings for those who qualify.

What is a low-dose CT scan?

A low-dose CT scan is a type of imaging test. It's like a traditional CT scan, but it requires less radiation.

For the test, you lie on a table that moves into a machine. The machine takes multiple X-rays, then puts them together to create detailed images of your lungs.

Low-dose CT lung cancer screening is one of the easiest screening exams you can undergo. Low-dose CT scans offer many benefits:

  • It takes just minutes.
  • You don't need to take medication or receive an injection.
  • There's no need to change clothes if the clothing on your chest doesn't contain metal.
  • You can eat before and after your exam.
Who is eligible for lung cancer screening?

You may qualify for lung cancer screening if you meet each of these criteria:

  • You are a current smoker or have quit within the last 15 years.
  • You are between 50 and 80 years old.
  • You have another risk factor for lung cancer besides smoking.
  • You have no signs or symptoms of lung cancer.
  • You have smoked the equivalent of at least one pack a day for 20–30 years.

If you qualify, you’ll need a referral from your doctor in order to be screened. We’re happy to help you get this referral.

Lung & Respiratory Care

Depending on your needs, we may work with other medical experts at Beverly Hospital to diagnose and treat your condition.