CT scans could help lower smoking-related deaths

CT scans of the lungs could help lower the risk of death among smokers.

Research from the National Lung Cancer Trial estimates the reduction could be as high as 20 percent.

Yes, a 20 percent death reduction if CT screenings are performed on all current and former heavy smokers over the age of 55.

"It's the first time anything's been done to show we can reduce the death rate from lung cancer," said Dr. John Hamm of the Norton Cancer Institute.

The death rate statistics of lung cancer are grim. Dr. John Hamm says no matter the stage of the cancer, using traditional x-ray screenings, 90 percent of patients die.

It's the most deadly cancer in the country, and Kentucky ranks number one for residents who have it.

This study is the first real hope to reduce these numbers and save lives..

"Every year, approximately 3,400 people die in the state of Kentucky from lung cancer," says Dr. Hamm. "The study showed a 20 percent reduction in death rate if we applied that across Kentucky. That would be approximately 700 lives saved every year."

Norton Cancer Institute, which opens in August, is teaming with the UK Markey Cancer Center to be the first organized screening program in the state.

The two centers will work together to provide follow-up on testing, which is crucial to rule out any false positives common with CT scans.