Understanding Lung Cancer Detection
Lung cancer remains one of the most formidable health challenges, often lurking silently until it reaches advanced stages. It’s the third most common form of cancer in men and women across Singapore, and it’s the leading cause of cancer mortality in men, accounting for 26.4% of cancer deaths in men. For women, it is still high at 15.7%, though for both men and women, the rates of survival are higher the sooner the lung cancer is detected. That’s why it’s a good thing modern medicine has made significant strides in early detection, offering hope and improved patient outcomes. But how exactly do doctors test for lung cancer?
Gone are the days when a simple chest X-ray was the go-to method for lung cancer screening. Today’s approach is far more nuanced and effective, combining advanced imaging techniques with comprehensive functional tests. This multifaceted strategy improves detection rates and provides valuable insights into lung health. If you are wondering how to test for lung cancer, specialists will conduct a few methods to help you through your early screening.
Low Dose Computed Tomography
Low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) is at the forefront of lung cancer screening. This state-of-the-art imaging test has revolutionised how we look inside the lungs. Using specialised 3D technology, LDCT produces incredibly detailed lung tissue images. In this process, you will lie down on a table, and a low dose of radiation will be used to ‘read’ your lungs.
What sets LDCT apart is its ability to detect even the smallest lung abnormalities, including nodules and tumours that might not be visible to other imaging methods. The ‘low dose’ aspect means patients are exposed to minimal radiation, making it a safer option for regular screening. It also does not affect any inorganic material in your body like a pacemaker or artificial joints. Perhaps most importantly, the test is quick and painless, typically taking just a few minutes to complete, but it can be lifesaving.
Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing
While imaging is crucial, understanding how the lungs function under stress can provide invaluable diagnostic information. This is where Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing (CPET) comes into play. CPET is like a high-tech workout, monitoring various physiological responses as you exercise. It is also known as a VO2 (oxygen consumption) test to see how efficiently your body processes oxygen.
During the test, medical professionals closely track your heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen consumption and carbon dioxide production. These metrics offer a dynamic picture of lung function. If lung cancer or other pulmonary issues are present, they often manifest as a reduced exercise capacity or abnormal gas exchange patterns.
CPET is particularly useful in detecting subtle lung function abnormalities that might not be apparent at rest. It’s a comprehensive assessment beyond just looking for tumours, providing a holistic view of respiratory health.
Pulmonary Function Tests
On top of these advanced techniques, specialists will also utilise traditional pulmonary function tests (PFTs). These tests measure various aspects of lung performance, including lung volume, capacity, airflow rates and gas exchange efficiency.
There are many different PFTs, including spirometry, diffusion, lung volume, peak cough flow and maximal voluntary ventilation. These tests put the lungs through various conditions to detect the narrowing of the airways, a common issue in many lung conditions, including some types of lung cancer.
These tests quantify how well your lungs work and can reveal functional impairments that might indicate the presence of cancerous growths or other lung diseases. If you’re wondering how to check for lung cancer, a holistic plan that uses both advanced techniques and traditional pulmonary function tests is one of the best ways to ensure a comprehensive diagnosis.
Schedule Your Comprehensive Lung Cancer Screening
At Neumark Lung & Chest Surgery Centre in Singapore, the true power of diagnostic tests lies in their interpretation. Dr Harish Mithiran personally reviews and analyses each patient’s results, going beyond simply identifying abnormalities. His expertise allows for a nuanced understanding of what these findings mean for each individual.
When concerns arise, action is taken swiftly. Dr Mithiran provides prompt diagnoses and personalised treatment plans, ensuring that each patient receives care tailored to their unique situation.
“Early detection is critical in providing effective treatment,” says Dr Mithiran. “If you’re at risk, it’s worth considering annual tests to ensure you’re not caught by surprise.” If cancer is detected, Neumark Lung & Chest Surgery Centre offers some of the most advanced treatment options.
Neumark’s approach reflects the best practices in thoracic surgery, particularly in minimally invasive techniques. These innovative procedures offer effective treatment options while minimising recovery times and preserving quality of life. By combining cutting-edge technology with personalised care, we strive to provide our patients with the most effective and least disruptive treatment possible.
At Neumark, we do more than treat conditions. We care for individuals with unique needs and circumstances.
If you’re concerned about your lung health, particularly if you have risk factors such as a history of smoking or exposure to environmental pollutants, don’t wait. Contact Neumark today to schedule a comprehensive lung health assessment.
