Westmoreland County exceeds the state and national incidence rate for lung
cancer and lung cancer is the leading cause of death in Butler County.
At Independence Health System, coordinating lung and pulmonary services
is a priority for our communities.
To combat these rates, IHS offers the Advanced Lung Center under the direction of
Michael F. Szwerc, MD, board certified general and thoracic surgeon. The Advanced Lung Center
offers patients low-dose CT imaging, a means of ruling out or detecting
lung cancer at its earliest stages.
A low dose CT scan aids in finding cancer sooner and with early detection
generally, more treatment options may be available.
Now more than ever, advanced screening can detect lung cancers earlier,
so individuals can have more treatment options and get better outcomes.
The screening utilizes a “low-dose” CT scan to find any nodules
especially in people who do not yet show any signs of lung cancer but
may be considered high risk for the disease. Remember, the screening is
a process, not a single test. An individual must adhere to the screening
for early detection.
Who Should Consider a Lung Cancer Screening?
Individual is age 50 to 80
Individual is a current or former smoker with a 20 pack-year history.
If the individual is a former smoker, that smoker must have quit within
the last 15 years
About Lung Cancer Screening
Chance of finding cancer is greater with the screening
Early detection usually means there are more treatment options available
The screening itself does not prevent cancer; it is a way to detect cancer,
if present
Extremely low risk of developing cancer from the CT scan radiation
There can be a “false positive” reading, meaning the nodules
detected may not be cancerous
There may be an added need for more testing if a nodule is detected
As a preventive medical service, the cost of the screening is typically
covered by Medicare. Private insurance companies are starting to follow
the same Medicare guidelines. Our staff will authorize all coverage and
notify you of any out-of-pocket charges that may be required. Affordable
out-of-pocket payment options are available for those who do not meet
criteria, are without insurance coverage or for whom insurance has denied
coverage. For additional information, please call
724-689-1440.
How to Schedule an Appointment
To schedule an appointment in the Butler Area call
724-284-6211.
For more information or to schedule an appointment in the Westmoreland
area, call
724-689-1440 today. Our staff will schedule your appointment if you meet the requirements
listed above.
Most insurances, including Highmark, UPMC and Medicare, cover the screening
cost. Please contact your insurance provider to verify coverage.
What is Lung Cancer?
Lung cancer is an aggressive form of cancer in which lung cells begin to
multiply in an abnormal manner and form a tumor. The cells in this tumor
are then qualified as “cancerous” as they start to destroy
healthy cells and tissue in the lung. They may even spread to other parts
of the body. The best way to avoid lung cancer is to avoid smoking and
secondhand smoke. It is difficult to identify lung cancer before it spreads
as initial symptoms are mild. Be on the lookout for persistent coughing,
swelling in the neck, chest pain, and shortness of breath. If you are
experiencing any of these symptoms, be sure to discuss them with your provider.
It's Never Too Late to Quit
No matter how long you have been smoking, your body will benefit from stopping.
Studies show that quitting helps everyone regardless of their age or even
if they have smoked for decades. Improvements in your health can manifest
in just a few days of quitting, including improved circulation, easier
breathing, and improved sense of taste and smell. Quitting also reduces
the chances of developing pneumonia, stroke, cancer, and emphysema. Many
have successfully stopped smoking, the habit is breakable, and the benefits
are substantial.
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