Don't wait for symptoms to think about lung cancer screening

PADUCAH, KY (Nov. 10, 2026) — A few minutes could make a big difference when it comes to detecting lung cancer. If you have a history of smoking, a quick, painless low-dose CT scan can help detect lung cancer before symptoms develop. That’s especially important in Kentucky where the rate of new lung cancer cases remains significantly higher than the national average.

“A lot of people are hesitant to get screened for lung cancer because they’re worried about what we might find,” said Nishant Allena, MD, Baptist Health Medical Group Pulmonary & Critical Care. “But finding a suspicious area early gives us the best opportunity to evaluate it quickly and determine the right next step.”

Lung cancer is largely asymptomatic in its earliest stages, which can allow the disease to progress before it is discovered, when it is less treatable. Screening with annual low-dose CT scans can reduce the lung cancer death rate by up to 20%.

The non-invasive screening is recommended for those most at risk for lung cancer: those over age 50 who have smoked, those who once smoked heavily but quit, those with a history of lung cancer, and those with other risk factors such as exposure to asbestos or who have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

For anyone interested in lung screening, you must meet one or all of the criteria listed below.

• 50 to 80 years old with private insurance or 50-77 and on Medicare.
• Pack a day for 20 years; 2 packs/day for 10 years; or a half pack/day for 40 years.
• Current or former smoker who has quit within the last 15 years.
• No signs or symptoms of lung cancer, such as recent weight loss, hoarseness or persistent cough.

Low-dose CT screening helps us find suspicious lung nodules earlier, and technology like ION Robotic Bronchoscopy helps us take the next step,” said Dr. Allena. “We can reach small, difficult-to-access nodules, obtain a tissue sample and help patients move from detection to diagnosis and treatment sooner.”

To schedule an appointment, or to get assistance in getting a doctor’s order, call Lauren Sonnek, Baptist Health Paducah’s Lung Navigator at 270.415.7631.