Lung nodules can serve as an early warning sign of lung cancer. Because lung cancer has one of the lowest five-year survival rates—only about one in four patients survive that long—early detection makes a critical difference. When lung cancer is found at its earliest stage, survival rates can be nearly 90%.
Understanding lung nodules
A lung nodule is a small, round or oval spot in the lung. Most nodules are harmless and result from infections, old scars or other non-cancerous conditions. However, some can indicate the earliest stages of lung cancer, which is why evaluation is so important. If you notice possible symptoms or are at risk, contact your physician at Endeavor Health at (847) 618-4340 to schedule an evaluation.
Symptoms to watch for
Nodules are often discovered incidentally during a chest CT scan or X-ray performed for another reason. Most lung nodules don’t cause noticeable symptoms, but in some cases, patients may experience:
- Persistent cough
- Coughing up blood
- Unexplained weight loss
- Shortness of breath
If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your doctor promptly.
Risk factors
Smoking remains the leading risk factor for cancerous lung nodules. Additional factors that increase risk include age over 50, heavy smoking (20 pack years or more), exposure to pollutants or radon, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and a personal history of cancer.
We use a measure called “pack years” to understand smoking history: Pack years = (cigarettes smoked per day / 20) x years smoked. For example: Twenty pack years means smoking one pack of cigarettes a day for 20 years—or half a pack a day for 40 years.
Knowing your pack years helps your doctor assess your risk and recommend the right screenings. Radon exposure is another important risk factor because it’s one of the most preventable causes of lung cancer.
Annual screenings save lives
While many people are familiar with breast or colon cancer screenings, fewer understand the importance of lung cancer screenings in saving lives.
Endeavor Health recommends annual low-dose CT lung screenings for adults who meet the following criteria:
- Between the ages of 50 and 80
- Have a heavy smoking history (20 pack years or more)
The screening is quick, painless, noninvasive and highly effective. If you quit smoking more than 15 years ago, you may no longer need annual screenings.
Why early intervention matters
As with most conditions, the earlier lung nodules are found and evaluated, the better the outcome. Our lung nodule specialists determine whether a nodule is active and whether further testing—such as a PET scan, biopsy or surgery—is needed.
We assess risk based on age, smoking history, personal history of cancer and the size, shape and location of the nodule. Very small nodules (less than 6 mm) and small nodules (6-8 mm) are often monitored closely, while larger nodules (8 mm or greater) may carry a 30–60% or higher chance of being cancerous, depending on smoking history, and require further testing. Our approach is multidisciplinary evaluation guided by national best practices from the American College of Radiology, American College of Chest Physicians and National Comprehensive Cancer Network.
Leading-edge technology for early diagnosis
When doing additional testing, Endeavor Health is among the first to use ion robotic-assisted bronchoscopy, an advanced diagnostic technology that allows doctors to reach even the smallest nodules with high precision and minimal risk. The procedure functions like GPS inside the lung, guiding physicians directly to the nodule. Patients go home the same day with accurate and reliable results.
Coordinated, compassionate care
If a nodule proves to be cancerous, you will not face the diagnosis alone. At Endeavor Health, a multidisciplinary team—including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists and pathologists—collaborates on every case. Together, they develop the most effective, personalized treatment plan to deliver the best possible outcomes. Our lung navigators across the system assist in coordinating care in a timely and expedited manner.
Support every step of the way
At Endeavor Health, we lead with expertise and compassion. From the moment a nodule is found, to diagnosis and possible treatment, we are by your side. If you are at high risk for lung cancer, schedule your screening today. Visit us online or call (847) 618-4340.
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