The American Cancer Society has updated its guidelines for lung cancer screening, recommending that nearly 5 million more people, including older adults who smoke or formerly smoked, undergo annual screening. 

The previous guideline focused on adults aged 55 to 74 with a 30 pack-year smoking history, considering the time since quitting. The updated recommendation expands screening eligibility to those aged 50 to 80 with a 20 pack-year history, regardless of how long ago they quit. 

According to the American Cancer Society, the updated screening guidelines are anticipated to result in a 21% rise in the prevention of lung cancer deaths compared to the existing recommendations. The revised guidelines aim to address disparities, raise awareness, and emphasize the importance of early detection through low-dose CT scans. 

Our healthcare experts at Ascension Saint Thomas can discuss the updated guidelines, why getting screened for lung cancer is important, and how a person can go about doing that during Lung Cancer Awareness Month.