Conditions

Lung Cancer Screening and Testing

Screening tests are often used to help doctors find and treat cancer in the early stages. These tests are very helpful in detecting certain cancers, but unfortunately there is no generally accepted screening test for lung cancer at this time.¹

Several methods of detecting lung cancer have been studied as possible screening tests. The methods being studied include tests of sputum (mucus brought up from the lungs by coughing), chest x-rays, or spiral (helical) CT scans. But there may be risks linked to screening tests. For example, an abnormal x-ray result could lead to other procedures such as surgery to check for cancer cells, but a person with an abnormal test result might not have lung cancer. So far, studies have not shown that screening tests lower the number of deaths from lung cancer.¹

You may want to talk with your doctor about your own risk factors and the possible benefits and harms of being screened for lung cancer. Like many other medical decisions, the decision to be screened is a personal one. Your decision may be easier after learning the pros and cons of screening.

¹What You Need to Know about Lung Cancer: Screening [Internet]. National Cancer Institute. Available from: http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/wyntk/lung/page5.

Content provided by Intuitive Surgical. For more information, please visit www.davincisurgery.com

PN 874000-A U1-20-11

Powered by Encounter Health™ | Terms of Use