MD Scope - November 30, 2023 - Lung cancer screening

Lung cancer screening available to eligible Albertans

Albertans aged 50 to 74 who currently smoke cigarettes or quit after smoking for many years can now self-refer for possible lung cancer screening through the Alberta Lung Cancer Screening Program (ALCSP) at 1-866-727-3926. Albertans can also be referred to the program by a primary care provider.

The AHS program is offering lung cancer screening using low-dose computed tomography (CT) scans to approximately 3,000 eligible Albertans up to March 2024.

All clients who are eligible for the ALCSP will be contacted by a tobacco cessation case manager (TCCM), who will complete a needs assessment to navigate current provincial resources and identify those who require financial support for pharmacotherapy.

Screening with low-dose CT scans can detect lung cancer earlier, before someone has symptoms, and when treatment is more likely to be effective. Without screening, most lung cancers are diagnosed at later stages, when treatment is less effective, as the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.

Albertans who need help to quit smoking can talk to their primary care provider about options to reduce or quit smoking.

For more information about tobacco cessation please go to: AlbertaQuits (albertaquits.healthiertogether.ca)

Visit screeningforlife.ca/lung for more information.

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