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Lung screening scan resulted in need to have CT scan next week

Lendrid
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My Dad was scanned in Manchester as part of the early screening initiative last week.

Today we received a call from the hospital saying they've seen something on the scan and he needs to have a CT there a week tomorrow. 

I am absolutely spiralling with fear. I asked the lady on the phone could she tell me any more but she said no.

I can't wait a week not knowing what this could mean. Could it be a false positive? Is it definitely a cancer scare or could they be picking up other things too? He has COPD. Could it be damage from that? 

Please, please advise. 

  • Hello and thanks for your post

    Having cancer can become a bit more of a possibility just because all cancers get more common as we age. So when something shows up on a lung screening scan it is taken seriously and properly looked into but it can have nothing to do with cancer. Often there is a less serious cause such as an infection, or scarring from a lung condition. Hopefully the CT scan give a much clearer picture of what is going on.

    I know waiting when you are worried is stressful, but hopefully you'll know more soon. Give us a ring if you want to talk any of this over. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Kind regards,

    Celene

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