Coccidioidomycosis or cocci is a fungal infection endemic in arid regions, such as the southwestern United States, northern Mexico, and parts of South and Central America.

1. Lung cancer screening: What to expect
Lung cancer causes more deaths than any other type of cancer. Timely screening can help
doctors diagnose early the beginning stages of the disease, even before the appearance of
symptoms.
Risk factors
Screening is recommended to those who have a high risk for developing lung cancer. The
National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) recommends lung cancer screening to the
following two groups:
• People 55 to 74 years old, with a 30-pack-year history of smoking (one pack a day for at
least 30 years.) This includes those who are still smoking or have quit within the last 15 years.
• People 50 to 74 years of age, with a 20-pack-year history of smoking, and with one other
risk factor for lung cancer, which includes a family history of lung cancer, a history of chronic
obstructive pulmonary disease or COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, and exposure to certain
chemicals.
People who fit in either of the above two groups are advised to undergo screening annually
until they reach 74 years of age. Those who do not fit in these groups might still be eligible
for screening and should speak with their physician regarding their concerns.
Screening method
There is currently only one recommended lung cancer screening method in the United
States: low-dose computed topography (LDCT.) This test uses low doses of radiation to scan
the body and take pictures of the lungs from several angles using X-ray. With an LDCT,
doctors can determine the presence of cancerous lung nodules. Prior to the test,
patients are advised to fast for several hours and to remove any metal objects from their
body. The test itself can take at most 30 minutes to complete. It is painless, and no
medication needs to be taken. If the results come back as “suspicious,” additional testing
and procedures might need to be performed to arrive at a complete diagnosis.

2. Image Source: wallstreettotc.com
A study by the American Cancer Society has found that lung cancer screening of all current
and past smokers could prevent up to 12,000 cancer deaths in a year. Those who are at high-
risk for lung cancer should make an appointment with their physician to discuss their
screening options.
Dr. Lisa Marie Cannon is a pulmonologist and critical care specialist. Follow this Twitter
account for more discussions on respiratory health.
TAGS: ldct, lung cancer, lung cancer screening, lung cancer screening options