Lung CT Scans May Help Smokers Quit: Study

Posted by PET / CT of Las Colinas on September 20th, 2017

The American Cancer Society estimates about 222,000 people across the country will be diagnosed with lung cancer in the coming year. An estimated 155,000 people die from this cause annually. With smoking being the number one risk factor for lung cancer, finding a more effective way to help people quit is a top priority for healthcare providers. Researchers across the pond may have hit on a method that is effective for promoting cessation. It seems giving smokers a visual of the damage done to their own lungs can make a difference.

The study in question involved providing patients at risk for lung cancer due to smoking a CT scan of their lungs. More than 4,000 patients between the ages of 50 and 75 were followed during the British study. Researchers split the group in half; giving some a CT while providing no screening for the others. Smokers who were given CT scans showed promising results. About 10 percent quit the habit within two weeks of seeing the results. The number rose to 15 percent after two years. In the control group, only about 5 percent had quit by the two-year mark.

The study, researchers say, shows the benefits of providing smokers with tangible evidence of the destruction the habit has on their bodies. While the technique is meant to shock people into action, it’s an important one for healthcare providers to consider, researchers say. Since tobacco use is the main risk factor for the condition, finding more effective ways to get people to quit is key to lowering the number of cases and deaths.

People who smoke are strongly urged to speak with their healthcare providers about kicking the habit. Since this habit is one that has both physical and psychological connections, a holistic approach may be required. Doctors, for example, may prescribe medication meant to address the nicotine cravings while also suggesting patients seek support to get them over the initial hurdles. Quitting smoking can greatly reduce the risks for lung cancer and many other serious health complications. In addition to lung cancer, smoking is linked to heart disease, other forms of cancer, increased risk for stroke and other life-limiting conditions.

Whether CT scans will be used more readily to help inspire smokers to quit remains to be seen. What is clear, however, is that kicking the habit is an absolute must for safeguarding health. Medical professionals are standing by to help their patients take the first step toward leaving the habit behind.

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