Latest insights

Lung cancer is the fifth most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia, with 15,000 new cases estimated in 2022.*

At Our Medical, we are dedicated to helping patients detect lung cancer early, to increase the chances of a better outcome. Although lung cancer commonly affects people over the age of 60, it can be present at any age, even those who do not smoke.

Some common symptoms of lung cancer include:

• persistent cough
• coughing up blood
• chest pain and tightness
• voice changes
• weight loss
• fatigue

Our Medical Radiographer Andrea Kuznicki explains that a CT scan may be appropriate for some patients.

“Diagnostic imaging is a popular choice for assessing the state of a person's lungs. However, plain chest X-rays are not always adequate for assessing underlying lung lesions. This is because plain x-rays can only provide a limited two-dimensional view.

Here is an example of a patient who presented for a routine Chest x-ray. A suspicious, indeterminate shadow was noticed on their lungs. The patient returned promptly for further CT imaging of their chest which showed a complex lung mass."

   

 

"CT scans are a more accurate way of evaluating the lungs and can identify a wider range of abnormalities. These scans acquire a three-dimensional assessment of the lungs and patients can expect to be in and out in less than 15 minutes".  

Resulting images can provide doctors with an accurate overview of the state of a patient's lungs, and even if normal, will provide reassurance about the absence of lung growths.

The accessibility and ease of having these scans done means that GPs are now depending more on CT imaging to help with the clinical management of their patients.

Our Medical Radiology has bulk-billed radiology onsite including high-resolution, ultra low-dose chest CT imaging.

Speak to an Our Medical GP today for a physical examination and chest CT referral. Our Medical Radiology is open for CT scans 7 days a week.

All referrals are accepted and walk-ins are welcome. For more information and to find your nearest clinic, visit our Radiology Clinics page.
 

* Source: Cancer Australia: Lung cancer in Australia statistics