In short: A low-dose CT scan can detect lung cancer at an early stage in smokers and former smokers, before there are symptoms and when the chance of cure is much higher. Large studies have shown that this kind of screening reduces deaths from lung cancer. In Israel, the scan is now included in the national health basket for people who meet the criteria.
Who the scan is for
According to the Israeli national health basket criteria (as of 2026): ages 60 to 74, with a smoking history of at least 20 pack-years, who currently smoke or quit within the last 15 years. The scan is done once every two years (or annually when a finding requires follow-up), on a physician's referral.
What are pack-years? The number of packs smoked per day multiplied by the number of years of smoking. For example, one pack a day for 20 years, or half a pack a day for 40 years.
US guidelines (USPSTF) are broader and recommend annual screening from age 50 to 80, with the same threshold of 20 pack-years. People who do not meet the basket criteria, for example because of age or additional risk factors, can also consult us about whether screening is worthwhile for them.
How the scan is done
You lie on the scanner table, hold your breath for a few seconds, and that is it. No contrast agent or fasting is needed, and the scan itself takes just a few minutes. The radiation dose is much lower than that of a standard CT.
What to do with the result
Most findings are small, benign nodules. The result is graded using an accepted system (Lung-RADS), which determines whether routine screening is enough, closer follow-up is needed, or further investigation should be done. We help you understand the result and decide on the next steps. About lung nodules
Part of a broader programme
Screening is also an opportunity to quit smoking and to check your lung function. Smoking cessation support
The TIGER programme
The TIGER programme (2021–2024) was the Israeli Ministry of Health's national pilot for early detection of lung cancer with low-dose CT, and it led to the inclusion of the scan in the national health basket. Prof. Amir Onn was among the programme's leaders.
Frequently asked questions
Is the radiation dangerous?
The radiation dose in the scan is low. For people at increased risk of lung cancer, the benefit of early detection far outweighs the risk.
I quit smoking 10 years ago. Is this still relevant?
Yes. People who quit within the last 15 years and meet the other criteria are eligible for the scan.
What if a nodule is found?
In most cases it is benign. The recommendation to continue routine screening, follow up or investigate further is based on the size and characteristics of the nodule.
Further reading: Ministry of Health pilot: free lung screening for smokers (ynet, in Hebrew, Prof. Amir Onn)
Related topics
General information only; it does not replace a medical consultation. עברית