There are guidelines that set out the criteria for who should undergo low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) for lung cancer. These guidelines are based primarily on active (current or past) tobacco exposure and have been largely determined by the results of large studies in the U.S. (NLST) and Europe (NELSON). Similarly, a proposed Lung Cancer Screening Procedure has been submitted in Greece.

All individuals who meet the criteria to undergo lung cancer screening are considered to be at high risk of developing the disease without currently having corresponding symptoms. Patients should discuss these guidelines with their doctor and understand the risks and benefits before undergoing the screening.

Criteria for performing low-dose computed tomography (LDCT)

Age: 50 to 80 years old

Smoking history: 20 pack-years*:

• 1 pack a day for 20 years; or
• 2 packs per day for 10 years

Candidates are current smokers or have quit smoking within the last 15 years

*A pack-year is the equivalent of smoking a pack (20 cigarettes) every day for a year. It is calculated by multiplying the number of cigarettes a person smokes per day by the number of years they have smoked. A 20-pack smoking history is equivalent to smoking one pack daily for 20 years, two packs daily for 10 years, or any other combination of daily packs times the number of years of smoking 20.