Heavy smokers in the Triangle will soon have greater access to lung cancer screenings that have been proven to significantly reduce death rates. The cancer screenings have been available for years, but will now be covered by private insurers beginning in January 2015.

Wake Radiology recently became the first healthcare provider in North Carolina to earn distinction as a Lung Cancer Screening Center by the American College of Radiology. It currently offers lung cancer screenings at six accredited locations across the Triangle.

“It’s unfortunate that lung cancer is often diagnosed at a late stage when there is little hope for a cure. We have the ability to detect and treat lung cancer early on, and patients with a high risk of lung cancer should take advantage of this screening technology,” said Dr. Lyndon K. Jordan III, Wake Radiology’s president and managing partner. “These screenings have the potential to reduce lung cancer deaths in the same way that mammograms are helping us fight breast cancer.”

Lung cancer kills more people in the United States than any other type of cancer. It accounts for 27% of all cancer deaths – more than breast, colon and prostate cancer combined.

In North Carolina, the nation’s leading tobacco growing state, more than 20% of adults currently smoke. Approximately 12,500 people in the state die from smoking-related diseases each year.

Who Should Get A Lung Cancer Screening?

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends lung cancer screening for adults (age 55 to 80) with a history of smoking one pack a day for 30 years or two packs a day for 15 years. The screenings are also recommended for ex-smokers who have quit in the past 15 years.

Individuals who are interested in a lung cancer screening should discuss it with their primary physician.

Where Are Lung Cancer Screenings Available?

Screenings are available at six Wake Radiology locations that were designated as Lung Cancer Screening Centers in July. The offices are located in Raleigh (North Hills and West Raleigh), Garner, Cary, Wake Forest and Chapel Hill.

“We’re proud to have the first six locations in North Carolina to be designated as Lung Cancer Screening Centers. It reflects our commitment to helping fight lung cancer with quality cancer screenings,” said Dr. Carmelo Gullotto, who led Wake Radiology’s efforts to achieve the ACR designation.

The American College of Radiology’s Lung Cancer Screening Center designation is a voluntary program that recognizes facilities that have committed to practice safe, effective diagnostic care for individuals at the highest risk for lung cancer. To receive this distinction, facilities must undergo a rigorous assessment of its lung cancer screening protocol and infrastructure and have appropriate procedures in place for follow-up management recommendations, including counseling and smoking cessation programs.

To schedule a lung cancer screening at Wake Radiology, call (919) 232-4700 or visit www.wakerad.com.