If something abnormal is found during screening
About 1 out of 4 screening tests will show something abnormal in the lungs or nearby areas that might be cancer. Most of these abnormal findings will turn out not to be cancer, but more CT scans or other tests will be needed to be sure. Some of these tests are described in Exams and tests that look for lung cancer.
CT scans of the lungs can also sometimes show problems in other organs that just happen to be in the field of view of the scans. Your doctor will discuss any such findings with you if they are found.
Written by
The American Cancer Society medical and editorial content team
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/lung-cancer/prevention-and-early-detection/early-detection.html
Last Medical Review: February 18, 2016 Last Revised: February 22, 2016
Costs of screening and insurance coverage
The cost for a low-dose CT scan as a screening test for lung cancer is generally about $300 for each test, but prices vary widely at different centers.
Under the Affordable Care Act, most private insurers must cover the cost of yearly lung cancer screening in people considered at high risk: aged 55 to 80, with a 30 pack-year history of smoking, and either a current smoker or quit within the last 15 years. Medicare also covers the cost of lung cancer screening in people considered at high risk, although the age range is slightly different (55 to 77 years).
Published on Oct 10, 2016
Montessa, a lung cancer survivor, talks about her diagnosis, symptoms during treatment, and recovery.