Lung Imaging & Screening: Protecting Iowans from Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the United States, claiming more lives each year than breast, prostate, and colorectal cancers combined. One of the reasons lung cancer is so deadly is that it often goes undetected until it reaches an advanced stage. The good news is that with advances in imaging technology, early detection is now possible. At Iowa Radiology, we provide advanced lung imaging, including low-dose CT (LDCT) screening, to deliver insights that guide care for patients at risk.

Why Lung Cancer Screening Matters

When detected early, lung cancer can often be treated more effectively, offering patients more options and a better chance of survival. Unfortunately, symptoms such as chronic cough, chest pain, or unexplained weight loss usually appear only after the disease has progressed. That’s why screening is critical for individuals at higher risk.

Low-Dose CT (LDCT) Screening

LDCT is the only recommended screening tool for lung cancer. Unlike standard chest X-rays, LDCT is significantly more effective at detecting small nodules that may indicate early-stage lung cancer. The scan uses a fraction of the radiation of a traditional CT and is quick, painless, and noninvasive.

Who Should Be Screened?

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends annual LDCT screening for adults aged 50 to 80 who:

• Have a 20 pack-year smoking history (for example, smoking one pack a day for 20 years or two packs a day for 10 years).
• Currently smoke or quit within the last 15 years.

If you fall into this category, LDCT screening could make a life-saving difference.

How Iowa Radiology Supports Screening

At Iowa Radiology, LDCT exams are performed using advanced CT technology designed to minimize radiation exposure while capturing highly detailed images. Our radiologists, who specialize in thoracic imaging, interpret the results with precision and communicate findings directly with your provider. If a nodule or abnormality is found, your physician will guide you through next steps, which may include follow-up imaging, further testing, or referral to a specialist.

Other Lung Imaging Options

While LDCT is used for screening patients at risk, other imaging exams may be recommended when symptoms or medical concerns arise:

• Diagnostic Chest CT. Provides detailed images of the lungs and chest structures to evaluate causes of symptoms such as chronic cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain.
• PET/CT. Combines metabolic and anatomical imaging to help determine whether lung nodules are cancerous and whether cancer has spread.
• MRI. Occasionally used to evaluate specific structures near the lungs, such as the chest wall, heart, or spine.
• Chest X-Ray. Often used as a first step when evaluating common respiratory symptoms.

By offering the full spectrum of lung imaging, Iowa Radiology provides answers that help patients and providers act quickly and appropriately.

Patient Experience and Safety

We understand that undergoing imaging for a condition as serious as lung cancer can feel overwhelming. Our team takes time to explain what to expect during your scan, answer questions, and ensure comfort throughout the process. Safety is always a top priority, which is why we use the lowest possible radiation doses without compromising image quality.

The Iowa Radiology Difference

• Subspecialty Expertise. Our radiologists include specialists in chest and thoracic imaging, ensuring accurate, clinically meaningful results.
• Collaborative Care. We work closely with primary care providers, pulmonologists, and oncologists to integrate imaging results into a coordinated care plan.
• Advanced Technology. LDCT and diagnostic CT scans at Iowa Radiology use the latest imaging equipment for maximum clarity with minimal exposure.‍
• Guidance Beyond Imaging. We don’t just provide pictures–we deliver insights that help guide the next step in your care.