Lung Cancer Screening in Manchester, CT — Early Detection Saves Lives

• A persistent cough that has lasted several weeks or is getting worse
• Coughing up blood, even a small amount
• Unexplained chest pain that worsens with deep breathing or coughing
• Hoarseness or voice changes that do not resolve
• Unintended weight loss or loss of appetite
• Recurring respiratory infections such as bronchitis or pneumonia
• Shortness of breath that is new or worsening

Many people with early-stage lung cancer have no symptoms at all — which is exactly why screening is so important. If you have risk factors, a screening conversation could be the most valuable appointment you schedule this year.

Lung cancer screening is a preventive tool designed to detect lung cancer at its earliest and most treatable stage — before symptoms ever appear. The screening itself is a low-dose computed tomography scan (LDCT), which uses a very low amount of radiation to create detailed images of the lungs. The scan is quick, painless, and does not require any injections or special preparation.

Lung cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related death in the United States, but survival rates improve dramatically when the disease is caught early. Studies have shown that annual LDCT screening in high-risk individuals can reduce lung cancer deaths by up to 20 percent. That is a significant number — and it starts with a simple conversation about whether screening is right for you.

At Advanced Pulmonary Care, we believe that screening is not about fear — it is about taking a proactive step toward protecting your health and gaining peace of mind.

Based on current USPSTF (United States Preventive Services Task Force) guidelines, you may be eligible for annual lung cancer screening if you meet the following criteria:

• Age — between 50 and 80 years old
• Smoking history — a history of 20 pack-years or more (for example, one pack per day for 20 years, or two packs per day for 10 years)
• Current or former smoker — you currently smoke, or you quit within the past 15 years

Even if you are unsure whether you meet these criteria, we encourage you to schedule a visit. Milos Tomic, APRN will review your history, assess your risk factors, and help you determine whether screening is appropriate for you.

Additional factors that may increase your risk include:

• Family history — a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) diagnosed with lung cancer
• Occupational exposure — long-term exposure to asbestos, radon, silica, diesel exhaust, or other known carcinogens
• History of lung disease — conditions such as COPD or pulmonary fibrosis may increase your risk

If your LDCT screening reveals a finding that requires further evaluation, you will not face next steps alone. At Advanced Pulmonary Care, we guide you through every stage of the process with clear communication and compassionate support.

• Additional imaging — a follow-up CT scan or PET scan may be recommended to get a closer look at any areas of concern
• Pulmonary function testing — to assess your baseline lung health and help guide decisions about any procedures
• Biopsy referral — if a suspicious nodule or mass is identified, we will coordinate a biopsy with a trusted specialist to determine whether the tissue is cancerous
• Staging and oncology referral — if lung cancer is confirmed, we work closely with oncology teams to ensure you receive timely staging and a comprehensive treatment plan
• Ongoing pulmonary support — we remain involved in your care throughout treatment, monitoring your lung function and managing any respiratory symptoms
• Acupuncture and integrative support — during the workup and any subsequent treatment, acupuncture may help manage anxiety, stress, sleep disruption, and fatigue that often accompany a cancer evaluation
• Chinese herbal medicine — selected formulas may be used alongside your medical care to support immune function, reduce stress, and promote overall resilience during a challenging time

Most screening results are normal or show only benign findings. But when something does require attention, early detection gives you the best possible chance of a successful outcome.