The American Cancer Society says there now is enough evidence to
recommend screening certain older, heavy smokers for lung
cancer. The society is releasing new guidelines Friday for
annual CT lung scans. But they are only recommended for people
ages 55 to 74 who have smoked a pack of cigarettes a day for 30
years or the equivalent, such as two packs a day for 15 years.
Research shows that screening these people can cut the risk of
dying of lung cancer by 20 percent. Whether screening would help
others is not known, so scans are not recommended for them.
Before patients decide whether to be screened, the guidelines
say they should have a frank talk about risks and benefits with
their doctors.