Screening for lung cancer is done using a low-dose computed tomography scan (a CT scan). It is the same as a normal CT scan but uses a lower dose of radiation. Low-dose CT scans are safe. To get a scan, your GP or other specialist needs to give you a scan request form if you are eligible for screening.
You make an appointment and take this form to a radiology imaging service. You don’t need to do anything else before you get a scan. You can wear your normal clothes. There will be no needles or injections, or taking any kind of medicines. The radiographer will give you instructions about taking off jewellery and any concerns if you have a pacemaker.
During the scan, you will need to hold your hands above your head while lying down. The radiographer uses a donut-shaped CT machine to take pictures of your lungs. The machine is open so most people do not feel claustrophobia or a sense of being ‘inside’ an imaging machine. You will not have a low dose CT scan as part of this study.
If you would like to find out more about lung cancer screening, you can visit the Australian Government official website.