November is National Lung Cancer Awareness Month
Why this matters — and what you can do
Every November, we observe National Lung Cancer Awareness Month — a time to spotlight one of the most preventable yet deadliest cancers. At Wisteria Imaging Institute, we’re proud to support this effort by offering low-dose chest CT lung cancer screening — an early-detection tool that can significantly improve outcomes when lung cancer is found early.
What is low-dose CT lung cancer screening?
Lung cancer screening uses a low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scan — a quick, non-invasive imaging test that can detect lung cancer before symptoms appear. The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends annual LDCT screening for adults ages 50 to 80 with a 20-pack-year smoking history who currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years. At Wisteria Imaging Institute, LDCT screening is part of our Preventative Radiology services and is offered using low radiation levels specifically designed to identify lung cancer in its earliest and most treatable stages.
Why it’s so important
Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related death in the U.S., in part because it often isn’t discovered until it has advanced.
Screening high-risk individuals with LDCT has been shown to reduce lung cancer mortality.
By detecting cancers at an earlier, more treatable stage, you may have better outcomes and more treatment options.
Who should consider screening?
At Wisteria Imaging Institute, as with national guidelines, lung cancer screening is especially recommended if you meet all of the following:
Age between 50 and 80 years.
A history of at least 20 pack-years of smoking (for example: 1 pack/day for 20 years, or 2 packs/day for 10 years). American Cancer Society+1
Currently smoke, or quit within the past 15 years. CDC
In reasonably good health; i.e., you are willing and able to undergo treatment if a cancer is found.
If you’ve never smoked or don’t meet these criteria, you might not qualify under current guidelines — but it’s still worth having a conversation with your physician about your individual risk.
What screening at Wisteria Imaging Institute looks like
Located in Wyncote, PA, we offer advanced imaging services in a patient-friendly, value-based environment.
The LDCT lung cancer screening is described on our site as a non-invasive test using low radiation dose, focused on early-stage detection.
We aim for fast service, board-certified radiologists, and same-day appointments in many cases.
You can call or schedule online to discuss your eligibility, pricing/self-pay options, and insurance coverage.
What to talk about with your physician
Before scheduling a lung cancer screening, it’s wise to have a shared decision-making discussion with your doctor about:
Your personal smoking history (how many years, how many packs/day)
Other risk factors you may have (radon exposure, family history, occupational exposures)
The benefits of screening (early detection, better treatment options)
The possible risks: false positives (which may lead to follow-up tests or procedures), radiation exposure (though low dose) and over-diagnosis (detecting cancers that may never have caused problems)
What happens if something is found: follow-up imaging, consultation with thoracic specialists, potentially biopsy or treatment.
Ready to take the next step?
Call Wisteria Imaging Institute today or visit our website to schedule a consultation for lung cancer screening. Don’t wait: the earlier the detection, the better the chances. For yourself and for the people you care about.
Let’s use this Lung Cancer Awareness Month to turn awareness into action. Early detection is a powerful tool — and you don’t have to do it alone.