Early-detection Lung-cancer Screening Program Offered at Harrington

SOUTHBRIDGE — For many years, the incidence of lung cancer across South Central Massachusetts has been rising. In most cases, by the time patients are seen or diagnosed, they have entered stage 3 or 4.

In an effort to reverse those trends, Harrington HealthCare now provides an early-detection lung-cancer screening program.

The program includes a low-radiation-dose CT scan. The simple test takes less than 15 minutes to complete, but allows radiologists and physicians to detect any suspicious signs of abnormalities within the lungs. Most private insurances, including Medicare, cover this test.

Individuals must be referred for a screening by a primary-care physician. Patients at high risk for screenings are those age 55-77, current smokers or those who quit fewer than 15 years ago, and/or those with a personal history of 30 ‘pack years’ (meaning one pack per day for 30 years, two packs per day for 15 years, and so on).

“This is a proactive way to confront disturbing lung-cancer statistics,” said Kathy Anestis, vice president of Ancillary Services at Harrington. “If we can detect lung cancer earlier, it is a much more treatable disease. The success of the program includes a commitment from the patient and the physician to follow through with the appropriate recommendations for care.”

Harrington offers CT imaging at its Webster campus (340 Thompson Road) and its Southbridge campus (100 South St.).