In Hong Kong, Lung Cancer was the most common cancer in men and the third commonest cancer in women. Lung cancer was also the leading cause of death from cancer in men and women. In the early stages, lung cancer usually has no noticeable symptoms. Hence, most patients are not diagnosed at an advanced, and thus non-curable disease stage. Survival time of lung cancer patient decreases significantly with progression of disease. It is therefore crucial to detect lung cancer early, before symptoms occur and while curable therapy is still achievable.

Tobacco smoking, including second-hand smoke, is the most important risk factor for lung cancer. Screening is often considered for individuals with a significant history of heavy smoking. However, screening with chest X-ray or sputum cytology did not reduce lung cancer mortality. An important American landmark study* showed that screening with Low Dose CT Thorax (LDCT) in specified high risk population could reduce mortality rate by 20% when compared with using Chest X ray as screening tool.

But if you have any one of following symptoms suspicious of lung cancer, please consult your doctor promptly for further investigation and management.

1. Persistent or worsening cough
2. Blood-stained sputum
3. Unexplained Chest or shoulder pain
4. Unexplained Shortness of breath
5. Unexplained loss of appetite and weight
6. Recurrent chest infection

[*Reduced Lung-Cancer Mortality with Low-Dose Computed Tomographic Screening. N Engl J Med 2011;365:395-409.]

The Procedure

The Test measures the amount and speed of air that could be inhaled into and exhaled from the Respiratory system (nose, larynx, trachea, bronchus and lung alveoli) pressure changes, volume of air inspired, expired or remained in the lungs during breathing, and alveoli gas exchange function. The test will not cause any pain but may cause some feeling dizzy or mild shortness of breath.

1. Spirometry

Spirometry is the most commonly ordered lung function test. It could be used to differentiate “Obstructive” and “Restrictive” lung defect. It is useful to assess the severity of airway diseases, treatment response, lung function impairment, cause of shortness of breath, occupation related lung problems and surgical risk.

2. Bronchodilator/Reversibility Test

Bronchodilator/Reversibility Test is performed when obstructive defect is found in the baseline spirometry. Bronchodilator will be given to the patient and spirometry will be repeated. This test is useful to demonstrate the reversibility of airway obstruction.

Remarks：

This is general information only and the list of complications is not exhaustive. Other unforeseen complications may occasionally occur. In special patient groups, the actual risk may be different. For further information please contact your doctor. Evangel Hospital reserves the right to amend this leaflet without prior notice. We welcome suggestions or enquiries on the information provided in this leaflet. Please contact our ward nurses so that we could follow up and make improvement.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and lung cancer have a common cause, and both are related to smoking. The chronic obstructive pulmonary disease itself is also a high-risk factor for lung cancer. Low radiation computer scan (LDCT) can not only be used as a screening tool for lung cancer, but also can detect emphysema. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is very common in Hong Kong and its mortality rate is also very high. It seems that chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and lung cancer are common critical illnesses related to smoking.

Screening means that doctors conduct tests for individual high-risk individuals when they are asymptomatic, aiming to make timely diagnosis and treatment. Therefore, not everyone can benefit from the screening program. This health check plan aims to screen smokers for early stage lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Object

• 50 to 80 years old
• Smokers

Lung Cancer Screening Program (RM1)

• Assessment by Respiratory Specialist
• Low Dose CT Thorax
  • for lung cancer screening
• SpO₂