PATIENT INFORMATION LEAFLET
Lung cancer screening in Alberta
For people at higher risk, a low-dose CT scan may find lung cancer earlier, when treatment has a better chance of working.
Reviewed by the Verra Health clinical team · Last reviewed September 2026
What is lung cancer screening?
Lung cancer screening checks for early lung cancer in people who do not have symptoms but have a higher risk because of their smoking history. The test is a low-dose computed tomography scan, often called a low-dose CT or LDCT.
Why does it matter?
Lung cancer can grow without causing obvious symptoms. Finding it earlier may allow more treatment options and improve the chance that treatment will work. Screening has possible downsides, including radiation exposure, false alarms, and finding spots that need follow-up but are not cancer. That is why it is offered to people most likely to benefit.
Who may be eligible in Alberta?
- You are 50 to 74 years old.
- You currently smoke cigarettes or quit after smoking for many years.
- You are well enough to benefit from treatment if a cancer is found.
- You do not have symptoms that need diagnostic assessment.
The program will ask about your smoking history, previous cancer, lung and heart health, recent chest imaging, and other factors. Meeting the age and smoking criteria does not automatically mean a scan is recommended.
What happens during a low-dose CT?
- A technologist reviews the appointment details and checks that you are ready for the scan.
- You lie on a table that moves through the CT scanner. The scan is open at both ends.
- You may be asked to hold your breath briefly while images are taken. The scan itself is quick and does not hurt.
- You usually do not need contrast dye for a screening scan. Follow the instructions given by the program.
What might the result mean?
Normal or low-risk result: The program may invite you for another scan in about 12 months while you remain eligible.
Unclear result: A small lung nodule or other finding may need another low-dose CT in 3 to 6 months. Many nodules are not cancer.
Abnormal result: The program will contact you to discuss further imaging, testing, or referral. An abnormal scan does not automatically mean cancer.
Frequently asked questions
Who may qualify for lung cancer screening in Alberta?
The Alberta Lung Cancer Screening Program is for people aged 50 to 74 who currently smoke cigarettes or quit after smoking for many years. The program reviews your smoking history and other health information before deciding whether screening is appropriate.
What is a low-dose CT scan?
A low-dose CT scan uses X-rays to create detailed pictures of the lungs while using less radiation than a regular diagnostic CT scan. It is the screening test used by the Alberta program; a routine chest X-ray is not a substitute.
What is a pack-year?
A pack-year describes smoking exposure. It is calculated by multiplying the average number of packs smoked per day by the number of years smoked. For example, one pack a day for 20 years equals 20 pack-years.
Can I have lung screening if I have symptoms?
Screening is for people without symptoms. A cough that does not go away, coughing up blood, ongoing chest pain, or worsening shortness of breath needs medical assessment rather than waiting for a screening scan.
How do I find out if I qualify?
You can review the Alberta program information and complete the self-referral process online, or call the program for help. Your family doctor or nurse practitioner can also discuss whether screening is appropriate for you.
Trusted information
- Alberta Lung Cancer Screening Program
- Screening For Life: lung cancer self-referral
- Canadian Task Force: lung cancer screening
This leaflet is for general education and does not replace individualized medical advice.