Lung scans may lead to early detection of cancer, increased survival rates

INDIANAPOLIS – Lung cancer is among the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, but if discovered early patients have more treatment options and their odds for survival increase.

That’s why Franciscan St. Francis Health is now offering a low-cost computed tomography (CT) scan for people who are at high risk for lung cancer. The service is the first of its kind to be offered in Central Indiana.

The screenings, which are available at St. Francis Health’s Indianapolis and Mooresville campuses, are offered to individuals who are between the ages of 55 and 75 and who are current or former smokers who averaged one pack of cigarettes a day for 30 years.

The $99 screening, which is a self-pay service, includes a lung CT scan and heart scan for coronary artery calcium scoring; complete lipid profile, blood sugar, blood pressure and body mass index screening. The scans are evaluated by certified radiologists and cardiologists.

For those requiring follow-up consultation, a case review harnesses the expertise of St. Francis’ Lung Clinic team of pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons and oncologists. This team works closely to forge medical and surgical treatments for the patient.

A recent study – the National Lung Screening Trial (NLST) – found that for high-risk individuals, a CT scan can detect lung cancer at earlier stages and reduce deaths by as much as 20 percent.

Appointments for a lung CT screening can be made by calling 877-888-1777.

To learn more about services at the St. Francis Cancer Center go to http://www.stfrancishospitals.org/cancer/. More information about the St. Francis Heart Center is at http://stfrancishospitals.org/heart.