Question: My doctor mentioned lung cancer screening at a recent appointment. How do I know if I’m eligible and what should I expect when I get screened?  

Answer: It’s great that your doctor is talking to you about lung cancer screening. Screening for lung cancer with a low-dose CT scan (LDCT) is the only proven method of detecting lung cancer earlier, before symptoms occur when it is more treatable and even curable.  

GO2 for Lung Cancer offers many resources to help you understand lung cancer screening, including whether you are eligible. You can begin with the following:

  1. Determine whether you should be screened. The United States Preventative Task Force (USPSTF) recommends annual lung cancer screening for people who are: 
    • Between the ages 50 and 80, and,
    • Have a 20-pack-year smoking history or more and,
    • Currently smoke or quit within the past 15 years. 
  1. Watch this video, Screening Saves Lives, to learn more about low-dose CT (LDCT) scans. 
  2. Read, download, or order our free educational materials including: 
  1. Watch the Screening and Treatment Options for Early-Stage Lung Cancer episode of our Lung Cancer Living Room expert speaker series with Jonathan Lischalk. 
  2. Locate a screening center near you by searching for a GO2-designated Center of Excellence in Screening or calling our HelpLine at 1-800-298-2436. 

GO2 for Lung Cancer is here to guide and support you every step of the way. Remember, early detection through screening can make all the difference in treating lung cancer effectively and improving outcomes. 

Please note that the information included in any published answer is for educational pursuit only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. The reader should always consult their healthcare provider to determine the appropriateness of the information for their own situation. Nothing from GO2 for Lung Cancer should be construed as an attempt to offer or render a medical opinion.