From an interview with
Dr. Herbie Bryant
McLeod Health Pulmonologist

Lung cancer screening is a process that’s used to detect the presence of lung cancer in otherwise healthy people with a high risk of lung cancer. These screenings find 80 percent of lung cancer at an early stage, when it is more curable. By the time lung cancer signs and symptoms develop, the cancer is usually too advanced for curative treatment. McLeod pulmonologist Dr. Herbie Bryant explains:

“Lung Cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States – more so that breast, prostate and colorectal cancers combined. 

At McLeod Health, we are proud to offer a lung cancer screening program that uses low-dose CT scanning to screen high-risk individuals for lung cancer. A lung CT scan can detect tiny spots or nodules on the lungs, years before they may be seen on a regular chest X-ray. 

Active smokers between the ages of 50 – 80 and those who have quit within the last 15 years are strongly encouraged to be screened. This test is covered by insurance, including Medicare.”

What Happens During a Screening?

During an LDCT scan of the lungs, you lie on your back on a long table. You may be given a pillow to make you more comfortable. The technologist who runs your scan will move to a separate room where he or she can still see you and talk with you.

You’ll be asked to lie very still as the table slides through the center of a large machine that creates the images of your lungs. The table passes through the machine initially to determine the starting point for the scan.

When the machine is ready to start the scan, you may be asked to hold your breath briefly to create a clear picture of your lungs. The table will move quickly through the machine as the images are created.

You can expect your appointment to last about a half-hour, though the actual scan takes less than a minute. When your lung CT scan is complete, you can go about your day normally. The images created during the scan are compiled by a computer and reviewed by a doctor who specializes in diagnosing lung cancer with imaging tests. You will then discuss the screening results with your doctor to determine whether additional tests are needed.

To learn more about the McLeod Health Lung Cancer Screening Program, call 843-777-5953. This call is free and just may save your life.