Lung Screening

Who should get a lung screening?

Anyone interested may get a screening. Screenings are recommended for those who meet the following criteria:

• 50-77 years old
• Current smoker or quit in the last 15 years
• 20 pack year or more (Pack year = packs per day x years your smoked)

Lung screenings are also recommended for high-risk occupations, including construction, firefighters, hair & nail salon workers, mechanics, and factory workers.

What is a lung screening?

A lung screening is a painless CT scan of your chest to look for nodules in your lungs. The scan takes about 15 minutes, and you won’t need to do anything to prepare. No physician referral is needed.

Early Detection Leads to Better Outcomes

 
Lung cancer takes more lives each year than breast, colon, and prostate cancers combined. Here in Oklahoma, the numbers are even more concerning. According to the American Lung Association’s 2023 “State of Lung Cancer” report, our state has one of the lowest five-year survival rates in the country, with only 21% of people surviving five years after diagnosis, compared to the national average of nearly 27%.

One reason lung cancer survival rates are lower is that patients are often diagnosed after the cancer has already spread beyond the original tumor. This makes treatment more challenging. Catching lung cancer early makes a big difference. When found in its earliest stages, survival rates improve significantly. That’s why we’ve invested in advanced technology like Ion Robotic Bronchoscopy—to help shorten the time between finding a spot on the lung and getting a clear diagnosis, so treatment can begin as soon as possible.

Many lung cancer nodules—over 70%—are found in the outer areas of the lung, where tight spaces and narrow airways can make them hard to reach. Until now, doctors haven’t had a go-to tool for safely and precisely reaching these spots. That’s where Ion comes in. Ion is an innovative robotic-assisted technology that allows our doctors to perform minimally invasive biopsies in these hard-to-reach areas, which could play a key role in catching lung cancer earlier and improving outcomes.

Why Choose Stillwater Medical for Lung care?

• Expert Care Close to Home – No need to travel far for advanced lung care.
• Advanced Technology – Including Ion Robotic Bronchoscopy for precise diagnosis.
• Personalized Approach – We focus on your unique needs and your goals for your health.
• Team-Based Care – We work closely with your primary care and other specialists to support your health. 

 

 
If you’re having breathing issues or need lung care, we’re here to help. Talk with your provider about a referral, or call us today to learn more about pulmonology services at Stillwater Medical.