Diagnosing and treating cancer early increases a person’s chance for survival. That’s why Virtua is offering free lung cancer screenings throughout the month of November to those who qualify.
“Lung cancer is one that doesn’t present symptoms until later stages,” said John Matsinger, DO, MBA, Virtua executive vice president and chief clinical officer. “Only recently has widely accepted screening tool for early detection become available.”
Because of the lack of screening, lung cancer is the second most common cancer in both men and women and is by far the leading cause of cancer death.
“Today, we have CT imaging technology that can detect even the smallest nodules,” Matsinger said.
This offers patients a non-invasive method for detecting lung cancer earlier.
Virtua’s lung cancer screening program includes:
-Dedicated phone number where community members can see if they qualify for a screening and book their appointment. That number is (856) 247–7370, press #2.
-Candidates who qualify fit this criteria:
– Individuals 55–74 years of age who are current or former smokers with a 30-pack year history, a pack year is the number of packs smoked daily multiplied by the number of years smoking. Former smokers must have quit within the past 15 years.
-Individuals 50 years and older with a 20 pack year history and one additional risk factor. Additional risk factors include certain occupational exposures, cancer history and a disease history of pulmonary fibrosis, emphysema, and chronic bronchitis.
-Personal navigator to schedule screenings and assist with necessary follow-up.
-Low-dose CT scans, available in Mount Holly, Marlton and Voorhees, that provide a detailed image of the lungs.
-Cancer care provided by the Virtua Fox Chase Cancer Program.
Because the screening technology is relatively new, many insurances and Medicare do not cover this screening. Those who qualify would typically pay $150 for the scan, but not in the month of November. Virtua supports Lung Cancer Awareness Month by offering FREE lung cancer screenings. Interested individuals can call (856) 247–7370, press #2, for more information.
