New Lung Cancer Screening Offers Early Detection—and Peace of Mind—at Tioga Medical Center

For many people, lung cancer doesn’t cause noticeable symptoms until it has already progressed. That’s what makes early detection so important—and why Tioga Medical Center is bringing low-dose lung cancer screening to the community.

Using a low-dose CT scan, this screening is designed to detect lung cancer in its earliest stages, particularly for those at highest risk. It’s a familiar technology, but with a much lower dose of radiation, making it both safe and effective for routine screening.

“Like all cancers, early detection is critical in determining treatment success,” says Jeff Moberg, PA, a provider at Tioga Medical Center. “Low-dose CT screening allows us to detect lung cancer before symptoms even appear, giving patients a better chance at successful treatment.”

The scan itself is simple and quick. Patients lie comfortably while the machine captures detailed images of the lungs in just a matter of minutes.

“A low-dose lung CT scan uses advanced imaging technology to capture detailed images while exposing patients to significantly less radiation than a standard CT scan,” explains Kresta Hauge, Radiology Director at Tioga Medical Center. “It’s quick, painless, and non-invasive.”

While the screening can be life-saving, it’s not meant for everyone.

“This test is not recommended for all patients,” Jeff explains. “If you are not in the high-risk group, the data has not shown that the benefits of screening outweigh the risks.”

Those who do qualify for screening include individuals who:

• Are between 50 and 80 years of age

• Have a 20 pack-year smoking history (such as one pack a day for 20 years or two packs a day for 10 years)

• Currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years

For those who don’t meet the criteria, there are still meaningful actions you can take to reduce the risk of lung cancer. “Most importantly, don’t smoke—or stop smoking now if you do,” says Jeff. “We have resources to help you take that critical first step.”

The American Lung Association also recommends avoiding secondhand smoke, testing your home for radon—an odorless gas known to cause lung cancer—and taking precautions when working with hazardous materials at home or on the job.

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States, yet only 16% of those at highest risk are screened. Expanding access to low-dose CT screening is one way Tioga Medical Center is working to change that—helping patients take a proactive step toward protecting their health.

To learn more or to find out if lung cancer screening is right for you, talk with your provider or call Tioga Medical Center at 701-664-3368 to schedule an appointment.