Due to the lack of clinical manifestations in the early stages of the disease, it is difficult to detect on its own and often requires the application of a low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) physical examination of the chest to be known.
The current Chinese expert consensus on the diagnosis and management of pulmonary nodules recommends regular screening for early detection and treatment in high-risk groups.
Regular LDCT screening is recommended if you are older than 40 years of age and have
1. have smoked ≥ 400 cigarettes (or 20 packs per year) or have ever smoked ≥ 400 cigarettes (or 20 packs per year) and quit for < 15 years. Note: Smoking index = number of cigarettes smoked per day (sticks) x number of years of smoking (years).
2. history of environmental or high-risk occupational exposure, e.g. asbestos, beryllium, uranium, radon, etc.
3. people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diffuse pulmonary fibrosis or a previous history of tuberculosis.
4. those with malignancy or a family history of lung cancer.