Lung Screening
Modern GE x-ray equipment for lung screening at Újbuda Medical Center in District XI!
What is lung screening for?
The examination known today as lung screening was originally introduced in the early 20th century for the detection of tuberculosis. Consequently, this screening was mandatory annually in Hungary for those over 30 years old, but today it is voluntary.
Regardless, lung screening is still recommended annually without a referral for those over 40, especially for heavy smokers or diabetics.
Additionally, early symptoms of lung cancer can be detected through lung screening, but naturally, a complete picture of the disease requires further imaging and laboratory tests, especially if further pulmonological specialist examination is necessary.
When is lung screening mandatory?
Individuals in the following risk groups are required to participate in annual lung screening:
- Homeless people;
- Staff of day shelters and night shelters for the homeless;
- Street social workers;
- Employees involved in providing meals in the form of soup kitchens;
- Volunteers who work with the homeless for at least a total of 16 hours a week;
- Employees of correctional institutions who work directly with detainees;
- Staff of reception stations and community accommodations;
- Police detention centers and guarded accommodation staff;
- Health workers of pathology and emergency departments in healthcare institutions;
- Health workers in microbiology laboratories of healthcare providers;
- Health workers in pulmonological outpatient and inpatient care units of healthcare institutions.
The Process of Lung Screening
Before the examination, the patient removes all upper body clothing along with any jewelry, as necklaces can cast shadows on the x-ray image, leading to false-positive results. An assistant positions the patient for the x-ray and places a radiation-protective apron around their waist.
It is crucial that the patient remains still during the examination and follows instructions regarding breathing. The examination is completely painless, with the only discomfort potentially coming from the coldness of the x-ray wall in front of the patient. No prior preparation is required for the examination.
A written report of the examination is always prepared, which the patient receives within 2-4 working days after the examination, either electronically or in printed form, if requested.
What does lung screening show?
Lung screening not only detects whether someone has tuberculosis but can also reveal several conditions affecting the lungs, thus potentially saving lives.
This is partly because the screening not only examines the lungs specifically but also takes images of the surrounding areas: such as the ribs, trachea, and heart. The examination is also crucial for diagnosing and treating any pulmonological complaints.
In the case of occupational health examinations, the report serves as a written document to the employer that the employee sent for the examination does not suffer from infectious tuberculosis.
Interpreting the Results of Lung Screening
The images obtained look for abnormalities, shadows, fluids, i.e., irregularities, by the specialists. Despite this, the results obtained from lung screening are not sufficient for a precise diagnosis, as this requires several other tests.
Nevertheless, this is an important procedure as the results of lung screening make the diagnosis much faster and more accurate, for instance, if there is a problem that requires the patient to see a pulmonologist.
How are private lung screening prices structured?
The current price for lung screening at Újbuda Medical Center is HUF 12,500, which includes the cost of the examination and the report.
If the patient requests the images on a data carrier for further examinations, the price is HUF 1,900 for a CD and HUF 4,500 for a pendrive.
For certain professions, the law requires annual lung screening under the age of 40, and the employer reimburses the employee based on the invoice received. Our institution cannot provide a stamp in the health booklet!
Lung Screening Immediately Without a Referral!
Book your appointment now!
Online or by phone at +36 1 550 7 550. Take a step towards a healthy future with the help of Újbuda Medical Center!
