Lung Cancer

Lung Cancer Screening

The American Cancer Society currently does not recommend screening tests for lung cancer, even in high-risk people. However, some doctors believe that smokers -- especially those 50 years or older -- should have an annual chest X-ray to help screen for lung cancer.

Studies at Mayo Clinic and other institutions are evaluating the spiral computed tomography (CT) scan as a screening tool. The preliminary results are encouraging. Many small lung cancers have been detected at an early and treatable stage. Almost three out of four participants in this trial have had at least one pulmonary nodule. Many participants have small nodules in the lungs that do not appear to be cancer. These nodules can be followed over time with additional CT scans to prove they are benign. To date, 98 percent of the nodules detected have been benign and 2 percent have been cancerous.

A national study sponsored by the National Cancer Institute is under way to evaluate chest X-ray versus spiral CT scan screening for lung cancer. Results may be available in three to five years.