There are several risks and limitations of LDCT lung cancer screening. These potential risks include:

Radiation exposure: By using special techniques, the amount of radiation in LDCT lung cancer screening is small, averaging the amount of radiation a person would receive from living in the United States for 4 months.

False positive test result and additional testing: LDCT lung cancer screening can show a “false positive” test result. The patient may need to have more tests, which will be performed only with permission of the patient and the referring physician. If the patient needs a procedure, such as a biopsy, it can have potential side effects.

Findings not related to lung cancer: The LDCT lung cancer screening exam also captures images of body regions close to the lungs such as the heart and the upper abdomen. In a small percentage of cases, the CT examination will also detect an “incidental finding.” This finding may not be serious; however, it may need to be examined further. If applicable, the report of the examination will include precise recommendations on how these findings should be worked-up.