Question:
Should I get a screening CT scan of my lungs to look for lung cancer if I am age 55-80 and have smoked an average of 20 cigarettes or more daily for 30 years?
Answer:
Yes
MedHead Confidence Score: 4
Amount Saved: $25 medical research cost
MedHead Message:
CT scan of the lungs for lung cancer screening does help diagnose lung cancer; however, there are potential downsides such as radiation exposure and cost. For every 1,000 smokers who are screened, we are able to save about 4-5 lives on average. Not unreasonable, but undoubtedly worthy of considering.
References:
1. http://www.choosingwisely.org/patient-resources/ct-scans-to-find-lung-cancer-in-smokers/ 2. https://canadiantaskforce.ca/guidelines/published-guidelines/lung-cancer/ 3. https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Industry=Medical_Research/Salary
