Early lung cancer screening can be done using Low-Dose Computed Tomography Scan (LDCT), which uses a low amount of radiation and employs three-dimensional imaging that provides higher resolution than regular X-rays. This helps detect early-stage lung cancer abnormalities more effectively and also indicates lung function compared to normal individuals through Spirometry or Lung Function Test. This test is useful for detecting other lung diseases such as asthma and emphysema, especially in patients who smoke regularly and frequently.
Even patients with a family history of lung cancer, as well as those who work in environments exposed to radioactive substances, cigarette smoke, dust, various vapors, or inhaled toxins accumulated in the lungs, are at risk. These factors can lead to asthma, lung diseases, emphysema, and eventually lung cancer.
For those at risk as mentioned, doctors usually recommend lung screening with Low Dose CT technology, a program for early lung cancer detection that is detailed, fast, safe, and highly effective. There is no need to fast or avoid drinking water, and additional tests to diagnose lung function using Spirometry are performed simultaneously for clearer and more comprehensive results.
Benefits of Lung Cancer Screening
This detailed lung cancer screening helps detect lung cancer at an early stage, allowing timely treatment before the cancer spreads to other parts of the body. It also reduces the risk of radiation harm due to the use of low radiation doses. In summary, screening can help detect lung cancer earlier and reduce mortality rates from lung cancer because when lung cancer is detected early, the chance of complete cure is as high as 90%.
Advantages of Low-Dose Computed Tomography
- Uses low radiation dose (normal CT Chest 7 mSV but LDCT Chest 1.5 mSV)
- Provides high-resolution 3D images, capable of detecting nodules smaller than 1 cm.
- Easy to perform, takes a short time, has few side effects, is safe, and highly effective.
- Can detect disease from the early stage before symptoms appear, allowing early detection and timely treatment.
Recommended for individuals with the following risk factors
- Aged 50-74 years
- Continuous smokers or those who quit smoking less than 15 years ago, or those living close to smokers
- Family history of lung cancer
- Exposure to environmental toxins such as cigarette smoke, radioactive substances, dust, and metal vapors
*Based on the National Lung Screening Trial (NLST) study from the United States
This screening is not suitable for
- Individuals under 40 years old without risk factors to avoid unnecessary radiation exposure
- Pregnant women or those planning to conceive
*** For patients who have had lung cancer or other types of cancer and have been cured for less than 5 years, if screening is necessary, it should be done using standard diagnostic CT-Chest.
Dr. Weeradej Suwannalak
Specialist in Respiratory and Critical Respiratory Care
Internal Medicine Center, Phyathai 1 Hospital
