Breathe Easier This Women’s Health Month: The Power of Early Lung Cancer Screening

May is Women’s Health Month—a time to reflect on the importance of preventative care, early detection, and proactive steps we can all take to protect our health. While many women think of breast cancer or reproductive health during this month, there’s another critical and often forgotten issue we should shine a spotlight on: lung cancer.

Lung Cancer: A Silent Threat to Women

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death among women, even surpassing breast cancer. One of the reasons it’s so deadly is that it’s often diagnosed at a late stage—after symptoms appear. Unfortunately, by then, treatment options are fewer, and the outlook is less favorable.

But there’s good news. With advancements in imaging and early detection, Low-Dose CT Lung Cancer Screening (LDCT) is helping save lives.

What Is LDCT and Who Should Consider It?

LDCT is a quick, non-invasive, and painless scan that captures detailed images of your lungs using low doses of radiation. This screening is especially recommended for individuals who are at high risk of developing lung cancer, even if they’re showing no symptoms.

You may be eligible if you:

• Are between 50 and 80 years old (some insurance plans cap at 77)
• Are a current smoker or quit within the past 15 years
• Have a 20 pack-year smoking history (1 pack/day for 20 years, or 2 packs/day for 10 years)
• Are asymptomatic with no signs of lung disease

Why Early Detection Matters

According to the National Lung Screening Trial, LDCT can reduce lung cancer mortality by up to 20% in high-risk individuals. Early detection allows doctors to find and treat cancers when they are still small and localized, increasing the chance of a full recovery and often avoiding invasive surgeries.

“For patients who are having trouble quitting, and for those who were only recently able to quit, screening with low dose CT improves our chances of finding lung cancer at an early stage, which often means less invasive treatment or a higher likelihood of a cure.”
— Dr. Jason Jacob, TRA Radiologist

What to Expect

The entire procedure takes just a few minutes and requires no needles, dyes, or fasting. If your scan is normal, you’ll simply repeat the screening annually. If something is found, further imaging or follow-up may be recommended—but more than 95% of nodules are not cancerous.

Affordable and Accessible

At Diagnostic Imaging Northwest, LDCT screenings are covered by most insurance plans for eligible patients with a referral from a healthcare provider. For those without coverage, we offer the exam for $223.80, due at the time of service for self-pay patients. We also offer flexible, interest-free payment arrangements without interest fees or charges.

Take the Next Step for Your Health

If you or a loved one fits the criteria, talk to your doctor about whether Low-Dose CT Lung Cancer Screening is right for you. A referral and a shared decision-making conversation with your physician are required. To schedule, call 253-841-4353 or 866-761-4200 (option 2) or schedule online.

Locations

• DINW Puyallup Imaging Center
• DINW Sunrise Imaging Center
• DINW Bonney Lake Imaging Center

Let the month of May be a reminder for women to look after their health!

Additional Resources:

• Lung Cancer Screening Saves Lives
•  American Cancer Society
• RadiologyInfo.org