Final answer:
High-risk patients, such as older adults, smokers, and those with a family history of lung cancer, are typically screened for lung cancer using low-dose computed tomography (LDCT), a medical imaging test that allows for the early detection of lung nodules or tumors.
Step-by-step explanation:
Patients that are screened for lung cancer are typically those at a higher risk for the disease, such as older individuals, smokers, and those with a family history of lung cancer. The low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scan is the standard test used for lung cancer screening. It is a type of medical imaging that uses low doses of radiation to create detailed images of the lungs, allowing for the early detection of lung nodules or tumors. While some may be screened incidentally through chest X-rays, LDCT is preferred for high-risk populations due to its higher sensitivity in detecting potential cancers. It's important to weigh the potential benefits of early cancer detection with the risks associated with false positives and radiation exposure. Hence, screening recommendations are tailored to individual risk factors, and decisions on screening should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider.