Novant Health Cancer Institute is proud to participate in a worldwide clinical trial called the International Early Lung Cancer Action Program (I-ELCAP).
Who is eligible?
Persons who exhibit no lung cancer symptoms but who have either an extensive smoking history (1 pack/day for 30 years or 2 packs/day for 15 years), family history of lung cancer or significant exposure to second-hand smoke.
What is required?
For study participants, there will be an initial screening with low-dose CT. If results are normal, which means no suspicion of lung cancer is reported, a second scan will be performed in a year to confirm. However, if results are abnormal, meaning something is seen that requires additional tests or more frequent follow ups, referrals will be made to the appropriate physicians.
What is low-dose CT?
Low-dose CT uses lower levels of X-ray beams to make detailed images of the body’s internal structures. The “low-dose” is to help reduce the exposure to unnecessary radiation. It is very comparable to the same levels of radiation that patients experience during a mammogram.
Why is this research important?
Many studies show early detection is essential in reducing mortality of cancer. Presently, there is no standard method for lung cancer screening and, therefore, many physician researchers are working to establish screening guidelines. This research is being conducted because physician researchers think it is possible that annual CT screening will enhance the possibility of early detection of lung cancer and that for those in whom lung cancer is diagnosed earlier this would lead to a higher cure rate.
Here at the Novant Health Cancer Institute we recognize that early detection methods are essential to improving patient outcomes and can save lives.