FAQs for Patients

A. The goal is to save lives. Without LDCT lung screening, lung cancer is usually not found until a person develops symptoms, at which point the cancer may already be far advanced and much harder to treat.

A. Yes. If you still fit the criteria for eligibility, an LDCT lung cancer screening examination is recommended every year, up to the age of 80.

A. Studies have shown that LDCT lung cancer screening can lower the risk of death from lung cancer by 20% or more in people who are at high risk.

A. The LDCT examination itself takes less than 10 seconds, and overall you should be done within 10 minutes. No medications are given, and no needles are used. You can eat and drink before and after the exam. You do not need to change your clothes as long as the clothes on your chest do not contain metal. You must be able to hold your breath for approximately 5 seconds while the CT examination is being performed.

A. Your results will be sent to your physician, who will provide them to you. Additionally, you can view your results on MyBILH Chart (registration required). 

A. LDCT screenings are covered by insurance. BIDMC will work with you to determine the full extent of your coverage.

A. Plain and simple, quitting smoking is the only way to prevent further damage to your body. Screening is not an alternative to smoking cessation.