Ballad Health, a healthcare system serving the Appalachian Highlands, is providing free lung cancer screenings to eligible individuals. The initiative aims to detect lung cancer early, when it is most treatable.
Screenings are available to those who meet specific criteria, including age and smoking history. Typically, individuals aged 50-80 with a significant smoking history (e.g., 20 pack-years) and current smokers or those who quit within the past 15 years are eligible.
Appointments can be scheduled by calling the Ballad Health Lung Cancer Screening Program at 423-431-1517. Screenings are conducted using low-dose CT scans, which are quick and non-invasive.
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the United States, but early detection through screening can reduce mortality. Ballad Health's program aligns with guidelines from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force.
