Lung Cancer Screening
Early Detection Saves Lives
Caught at stage 1, the 5-year survival rate is 60%. Caught at stage 4, it drops to 5%. Low-dose CT screening can detect lung cancer BEFORE symptoms appear, when it's most treatable. Don't wait for symptoms.
5-year survival at Stage 1
5-year survival at Stage 4
Reduction in mortality with screening
Who Should Get Screened?
High-Risk Occupations
If you work in any of these fields, you may be at higher risk even without a significant smoking history:
The Screening Process
Risk Assessment
We evaluate your smoking history, exposures, and family history
Low-Dose CT Scan
Quick, painless scan that takes minutes with 90% less radiation than regular CT
Results Review
Our pulmonologist reviews results and discusses findings with you
Follow-Up Plan
If clear: annual screening. If nodule found: appropriate next steps
If a Nodule is Found
Don't panic. 95% of nodules found on screening are benign.
- Small nodules: Follow-up CT in 3-6 months to check for growth
- Suspicious nodules: PET scan or biopsy for further evaluation
- Cancer detected early: Referral to thoracic surgery for curative treatment
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should get screened for lung cancer?
Annual low-dose CT screening is recommended for adults aged 50 to 80 with a 20 or more pack-year smoking history who currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years. Those with occupational exposures to asbestos, radon, or silica, or a strong family history of lung cancer, may also qualify. A pulmonologist can assess your individual risk.
What type of scan is used for lung cancer screening?
Low-dose CT (LDCT) of the chest is the recommended screening tool. It uses significantly less radiation than a standard CT scan, takes only a few minutes, and requires no contrast injection or special preparation.
How often should I get screened?
If your first scan is clear, annual screening is recommended for as long as you remain in the high-risk category. Your pulmonologist will review whether to continue based on your age, health status, and current guidelines.
Is lung cancer screening available in Hyderabad?
Yes. Respire Airway Clinics in Hyderabad offers lung cancer screening with a specialist pulmonologist assessment. This includes a risk evaluation appointment, the low-dose CT scan, and a results review consultation.
What happens if a nodule is found on my scan?
Most nodules found on screening are benign. Small, stable nodules are monitored with follow-up CT scans at set intervals. Suspicious or growing nodules may need further evaluation with a PET scan, EBUS, or bronchoscopy-guided biopsy. Finding a nodule is not a diagnosis of cancer.
Does lung cancer screening involve any pain or risk?
No. A low-dose CT scan is completely painless and non-invasive. You lie on a scanning table while the machine takes images. There are no needles, no contrast dye, and no recovery time.