Early Detection at Norton Thoracic Institute
Screening for Lung Cancer
An Insight into the Process
When you join the Norton Thoracic Institute Lung Cancer Screening Program, the procedure is straightforward. The CT scan is brief and pain-free. Once completed, an extensive team of specialists—including thoracic radiologists, surgeons, cardiologists, pulmonologists, oncologists, internal medicine experts, and infectious disease specialists—will review your scan. They will collectively draft a report, detailing findings and any medical recommendations. Your primary doctor will receive this report, and a representative from our team will contact you to discuss the results.
Lung cancer screenings change lives
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States, among both men and women. This is a perfect time to be proactive and get a lung cancer screening, which consists of a simple 60 second CT scan which is painless and covered 100% by Medicare and private insurers if the individual is eligible as per current guidelines. Dr. Jasmine Huang, a thoracic surgeon with Norton Thoracic Institute at Dignity Health St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center, recently spoke with Arizona Daily Mix to raise awareness about lung cancer screening and treatment options.
Lung cancer remains one of the leading causes of death, but early detection can make all the difference. If you have a history of smoking, the Lung Cancer Screening Program at Norton Thoracic Institute is designed specifically for you. Annual low-dose CT lung cancer screening for high risk individuals is covered by Medicare and insurance.
A low-dose CT is a quick, painless X-ray that uses a small amount of radiation to create detailed images of your lungs. While any radiation exposure carries a small risk, the benefit of finding lung cancer early, when it’s most treatable, far outweighs that risk.With the help of low-dose computed tomography (CT) scans, this program aims to catch lung cancer in its earliest, most treatable stages. Research from the National Cancer Institute indicates that these CT scans have contributed to a 20% reduction in lung cancer-related deaths. Another study estimated that early detection and treatment of lung cancer could save more than 70,000 lives every year in the United States.
Am I a Candidate for Screening?
If you fit the following criteria, you may be a good candidate:
Individuals 50-77 years of age
Current smoker or have quit within 15 years, AND
If patient has a smoking history of:
•1 pack per day over 20 years OR
•2 packs per day over 10 years
Even if you feel healthy, talk to your doctor about screening if you have risk factors. Discuss your eligibility for lung cancer screening and whether it's right for you.
Call us to Schedule a Screening
Comprehensive Lung Cancer Screening: A New Partnership for Early Detection
Dignity Health of Arizona has partnered with AZ Diagnostics (AZDRG), a leading provider of diagnostic imaging, to offer comprehensive and advanced lung cancer screening services. This collaboration allows us to leverage AZDRG's state-of-the-art technology and expertise in early detection, ensuring our patients receive the highest quality care and the best possible chance for early diagnosis and treatment.
