Q: Which specialist doctor can perform screening for lung cancer?
A: A chest physician or even a general physician can advice perform this screening
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Q: Do screening tests carry risks?
A: Yes
False negatives- Sometimes screening tests may give false negative results, i.e. tests may show that there is no cancer even when there really is. This delays seeking medical care even if the patient has symptoms.
False positives- Sometimes tests show that there is cancer even if the person doesn’t have one. This results in undue anxiety and may lead to unnecessary interventions.
Radiation exposure from chest x-rays may increase the risk of developing breast cancer.
Q: When should I get a lung cancer screening?
A: There is no standard protocol with respect to screening for lung cancer. Screening is usually done before a person develops any symptoms.
