Lung Cancer Screening in Ventura, CA
According to the American Cancer Society, lung cancer is the second most common cancer in the United States, with an estimated 226,650 new cases reported in 2025. It is by far the leading cause of cancer death, making up 20%-25% of all cancer deaths.
Early detection of lung cancer is associated with better treatment outcomes, and Community Memorial is dedicated to providing screening and detection resources to our community.
CT Lung Cancer Screening is endorsed by the American Cancer Society, American Lung Association, and the American Society of Clinical Oncology. It is recommended for patients who meet the following criteria:
- Age 50 – 80 years old
- Current smoker — or — former smoker who has quit in the last 15 years
- A history of at least 20 years of smoking
What is Lung Cancer Screening?
Community Memorial’s Lung Cancer Screening Program includes a low-dose chest CT, lung nodule detection, lung nodule registry, and lung cancer diagnosis (if applicable). The screening is a quick test that requires you to lie still for a few moments while the scan is performed. No needles, injections, or preparation is required.
What Happens After Your Scan
After your screening, a radiologist will review your images and send results to your doctor, typically within a few business days. Your primary care physician will follow up with you to discuss the findings.
Results generally fall into one of three categories:
- Normal or benign findings - no action needed beyond your next annual screening
- A nodule that requires monitoring - a follow-up scan in 3–6 months to check for changes
- A finding that warrants further evaluation - your doctor will refer you to a specialist, and our team at Community Memorial Cancer Center will be ready to support you every step of the way
It's important to know that most lung nodules found on screening are not cancer. A follow-up recommendation is not a diagnosis; it is simply a precaution.
Why Early Detection Matters
When lung cancer is detected at an early stage (Stage I), the five-year survival rate is roughly 65%. When it is detected after it has spread to distant parts of the body (Stage IV), that rate drops to 3% to 7%. Annual screening for high-risk individuals has been shown to reduce lung cancer mortality by up to 20%.
If you smoke or have a significant smoking history, this scan is one of the most important health decisions you can make.
Lung Cancer Screening FAQs
If I quit smoking years ago, should I still be screened?
Former smokers may still qualify for lung cancer screening depending on their age and smoking history. Talk with your healthcare provider to determine whether screening is recommended for you.
Does a family history of lung cancer mean I should be screened?
A family history of lung cancer may increase your risk, but screening recommendations are primarily based on age and smoking history. Your doctor can help evaluate your individual risk factors.
Can non-smokers get lung cancer?
Yes. While smoking is the leading risk factor, lung cancer can occur in people who have never smoked. Exposure to secondhand smoke, radon, environmental hazards, and genetic factors may also increase risk.
Early Detection Is the Most Powerful Tool You Have
Lung cancer rarely causes symptoms in its earliest, most treatable stages. By the time most people notice something is wrong, the disease has often progressed. Annual screening changes that equation - giving you and your care team a chance to act before symptoms ever appear.
If you have a significant smoking history, this scan may be the most important 30 minutes you spend this year. Community Memorial makes it straightforward: a fast, low-dose CT scan in Ventura County, reviewed by experienced radiologists, with a care team ready to support you whatever the results show.
If you would like to schedule a screening, ask your primary care doctor for more information. Click here to browse providers.
