How Low-Dose Lung CT Works
During the scan, you’ll lie on a table that slowly moves through a donut-shaped CT machine. The test is quick and painless. You may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds so we can get the clearest images.
A low-dose CT (LDCT) uses much less radiation than a standard CT scan, making it safe to repeat once a year when recommended.
Even with lower radiation, the images are very detailed. They allow our doctors to see tiny spots or changes in the lungs that might be too small to find with other tests.
Why This Screening is Essential
Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S., mostly because it is frequently diagnosed only after it has reached an advanced stage.
LDCT screening moves the focus toward early detection, which national studies have shown greatly reduces death rates among high-risk individuals.
Beyond cancer detection, these high-definition scans can also provide your doctor with important insights into other lung conditions, such as emphysema or infection.
Who Should Consider Screening?
Lung cancer often develops without symptoms. Screening with low-dose CT can help detect cancer earlier when treatment options are greater, and outcomes can improve.
According to medical experts, you may qualify for yearly screening if you are:
- Between 50 and 80 years old.
- Have a 20 pack-year* or greater smoking history
- Currently smoke or quit within the past 15 years
- Have no lung cancer symptoms
A pack-year measures lifetime smoking exposure:
1 pack/day for 20 years = 20 pack-years. A pack year is calculated by multiplying the number of packs of cigarettes smoked per day by the number of years you have smoked.
Not sure? We can help you calculate it.
If you fit into the above groups, a yearly lung check with a low-dose CT is a simple way to keep an eye on your lung health.
If you’re having symptoms like a persistent cough, chest pain, or unexplained weight loss, this test may not be the right first step. Talk with your doctor about a diagnostic exam instead — our team can help you schedule the appropriate imaging.
Simple Preparation and Results
Getting ready for your scan is easy. There’s no need to fast, and you can take your regular medications as usual. We recommend wearing comfortable, loose-fitting clothing and leaving metal items like jewelry at home.
After your exam, you can go right back to your normal routine. Our board-certified radiologists will carefully review your images, and a detailed report will be sent to your doctor, who will go over the results and any next steps with you.
Insurance and Affordability
Most major insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, cover annual low-dose lung CT exams for patients who qualify. At HMI, we work to keep these important tests accessible and affordable.
Choosing an imaging center instead of a hospital can often lower your out-of-pocket cost — sometimes by as much as half for the same exam.
You’ll still receive high-quality care, with experienced radiologists and advanced imaging technology, without the higher hospital prices.
