Question 1

What is Lung cancer?

Accepted Answer

Lung cancer is a malignant tumor that develops in the lung tissue and is one of the most common and deadly cancers worldwide. It is primarily caused by exposure to carcinogens such as tobacco smoke, asbestos, radon gas, and hexavalent chromium (chromium VI) in occupational settings. The Chromium, Urine test is the most important test for assessing occupational or environmental exposure to this known lung cancer risk factor.

Question 2

What causes lung cancer?

Accepted Answer

Lung cancer is caused by exposure to carcinogens that damage lung tissue DNA and trigger abnormal cell growth. The primary cause is cigarette smoking, which accounts for about 85% of cases, but significant occupational and environmental factors also contribute. These include exposure to hexavalent chromium (chromium VI) in welding and chrome plating, asbestos in construction and shipbuilding, radon gas in homes and mines, and secondhand smoke. Workers in industries like metal working, leather tanning, cement manufacturing, and chemical production face elevated risks due to repeated exposure to these cancer-causing substances.

Question 3

What is the best test for lung cancer risk assessment?

Accepted Answer

The Chromium, Urine test is the most important test for assessing occupational exposure to hexavalent chromium, a known lung cancer risk factor. This test measures chromium levels in urine to identify workers who have been exposed to dangerous levels of this carcinogen in industries such as welding, chrome plating, leather tanning, and cement manufacturing. Elevated chromium levels indicate significant exposure that may warrant protective workplace measures, enhanced medical surveillance, and lifestyle modifications to reduce overall lung cancer risk. While this test does not diagnose lung cancer itself, it provides critical information about exposure to a preventable risk factor, allowing for early intervention before disease develops.

Question 4

When should I get tested for chromium exposure?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you work in industries with known chromium exposure, such as welding, chrome plating, stainless steel production, leather tanning, or cement manufacturing. Testing is also important if you experience respiratory symptoms like persistent cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain while working in these environments. Annual or periodic testing is recommended for workers with ongoing occupational exposure to monitor cumulative levels and ensure workplace safety measures are effective. If you have a history of heavy smoking combined with occupational exposure to chromium or other carcinogens, testing becomes even more critical for comprehensive risk assessment.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of lung cancer?

Accepted Answer

Lung cancer symptoms often do not appear until the disease is advanced. Early warning signs include a persistent cough that does not go away or worsens over time, coughing up blood or rust-colored phlegm, chest pain that intensifies with deep breathing or coughing, hoarseness, unexplained weight loss, and shortness of breath. Other symptoms may include repeated respiratory infections like bronchitis or pneumonia, fatigue, and wheezing. Unfortunately, many people mistake these symptoms for common respiratory conditions, which is why screening and risk assessment through exposure testing is important for high-risk individuals.

Question 6

Who is at risk for lung cancer?

Accepted Answer

Current and former smokers are at the highest risk for lung cancer, with risk increasing based on the number of years smoking and cigarettes per day. Workers in occupations with exposure to carcinogens like chromium, asbestos, radon, diesel exhaust, and silica face elevated risks. People with a family history of lung cancer, those exposed to secondhand smoke regularly, and individuals living in areas with high radon levels are also at increased risk. Additional risk factors include previous radiation therapy to the chest, chronic lung diseases like COPD, and age over 65. Workers in mining, construction, manufacturing, and metal working should be particularly vigilant about exposure monitoring.

Question 7

What happens if lung cancer is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated lung cancer spreads rapidly to other parts of the body through the bloodstream and lymphatic system, most commonly metastasizing to the brain, bones, liver, and adrenal glands. As the tumor grows, it causes progressive respiratory failure, severe chest pain, difficulty swallowing, and accumulation of fluid around the lungs. Metastatic lung cancer leads to neurological symptoms from brain involvement, bone pain and fractures, and organ failure. The five-year survival rate for untreated or late-stage lung cancer is extremely low, typically less than 5%, whereas early detection and treatment can improve survival rates to 60% or higher for localized disease. This is why monitoring exposure risks and seeking medical evaluation for concerning symptoms is critical.

Question 8

Can lung cancer be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Lung cancer cannot be diagnosed with a blood test alone. Definitive diagnosis requires imaging studies such as chest X-rays, CT scans, or PET scans, followed by tissue biopsy to examine cells under a microscope. However, blood tests play an important supporting role in lung cancer care. The Chromium, Urine test assesses exposure to carcinogens that increase lung cancer risk, helping identify people who need enhanced screening. Other blood tests can evaluate overall health status, organ function, and tumor markers once cancer is suspected or diagnosed. Emerging liquid biopsy tests that detect circulating tumor DNA show promise for early detection and monitoring, but imaging and biopsy remain the gold standard for diagnosis.

Question 9

How is lung cancer treated?

Accepted Answer

Lung cancer treatment depends on the cancer type (small cell or non-small cell), stage at diagnosis, and overall health. Surgery to remove the tumor or affected lung portion is the primary treatment for early-stage disease. Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells and may be combined with surgery or used when surgery is not possible. Chemotherapy involves drugs that destroy rapidly dividing cancer cells throughout the body. Targeted therapy drugs attack specific genetic mutations in cancer cells with fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy. Immunotherapy helps the immune system recognize and fight cancer cells. Most patients receive a combination of these treatments tailored to their specific cancer characteristics and overall health status.

Question 10

How can I prevent lung cancer?

Accepted Answer

The most effective way to prevent lung cancer is to never start smoking or to quit if you currently smoke, as this eliminates the single largest risk factor. If you work in industries with carcinogen exposure, use proper personal protective equipment including respirators, ensure adequate workplace ventilation, and participate in regular exposure monitoring programs. Test your home for radon gas and install mitigation systems if levels are elevated. Avoid prolonged exposure to secondhand smoke and reduce exposure to air pollution when possible. Maintain a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, which may provide some protective benefits. If you are at high risk due to smoking history or occupational exposure, discuss low-dose CT lung cancer screening with your healthcare provider, as early detection significantly improves survival rates.

Question 11

What can I do at home to reduce lung cancer risk?

Accepted Answer

At home, you can take several practical steps to reduce lung cancer risk. Test your home for radon gas using an inexpensive kit available at hardware stores, and install a radon mitigation system if levels exceed 4 picocuries per liter. Create a smoke-free environment by prohibiting smoking indoors and avoiding secondhand smoke exposure. Improve indoor air quality by using air purifiers with HEPA filters, avoiding harsh chemical cleaners, and ensuring proper ventilation when using any products that produce fumes. If you smoke, develop a quit plan with support from cessation programs, nicotine replacement therapy, or prescription medications. Eat a diet rich in antioxidant-containing foods like berries, leafy greens, and cruciferous vegetables. Exercise regularly to maintain lung function and overall health. These lifestyle modifications work synergistically to reduce your overall cancer risk.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Lung Cancer Risk Blood Test

What is Lung cancer?

What causes lung cancer?

What is the best test for lung cancer risk assessment?

When should I get tested for chromium exposure?

References

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