Catching COPD Early: Why Timing Could Save Your Lungs

Early COPD Detection

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, or COPD, is one of the most common lung conditions in the world—yet it remains deeply underdiagnosed. In the United States alone, over 12.5 million people are known to have COPD, but millions more may be living with it. One of the main reasons for this gap is that early symptoms, such as a lingering cough or shortness of breath, are often easily dismissed. Many people don’t seek help until their breathing problems are severe and irreversible damage has already taken place.

CT:VQ™ Redefines Lung Imaging: FDA Clearance Makes Non-Contrast V/Q Scans a Reality

4DMedical CT:VQ - Then: Structural Only and Now: See the Physiology

In a landmark move for pulmonary diagnostics, 4DMedical’s CT:VQ™ earned FDA 510(k) clearance in September 2025, marking it as the first and only non-contrast ventilation–perfusion (V/Q) imaging solution. The technology is available via routine chest CT scans. With CMS confirming reimbursement under Category III CPT codes (on top of the existing chest CT payment), CT:VQ™ is poised to redefine accessibility and efficiency in functional lung imaging.

4DMedical’s CT:VQ™ Receives FDA 510(k) Clearance; First-and-Only Non-Contrast VQ Imaging

CT:VQ™ Non-Contrast Lung Ventilation Perfusion

4DMedical, a leader in advanced respiratory imaging, today announces U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) 510(k) clearance for CT:VQ™, the world’s first and only non-contrast, ventilation–perfusion (VQ) imaging solution. In parallel, the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has confirmed reimbursement for CT:VQ under Category III CPT codes; this payment is in addition to existing reimbursement for the underlying chest CT.

July 17-19 | Florida Radiological Society | Orlando, FL

4DMedical will be attending the 2026 Annual Meeting of the Florida Radiological Society (FRS) and Florida Radiology Business Management Association (FRBMA), taking place July 17–19, 2026, at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes in Orlando, Florida. This premier regional meeting brings together radiologists, radiation oncologists, practice leaders, and industry partners to explore the future of imaging and healthcare delivery.

July 31 – August 2 | General Practice Conference & Exhibition (GPCE) | Melbourne, AUS

GPCE Melbourne is one of Australia’s leading events for general practitioners and primary healthcare professionals, offering a dynamic mix of independent CPD-accredited education and an expansive exhibition floor featuring the latest medical innovations and clinical tools. Hosted at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC), this three-day event supports clinicians in expanding their knowledge, sharpening practical skills, and earning valuable continuing professional development hours.

August 6-8 | CSANZ 2026 | Sydney, AUS

The 74th Annual Scientific Meeting of the Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand and 50th Annual Scientific Meeting of the International Society for Heart Research (Australasian Section) will be held at the ICC Sydney from 6 – 9 August 2026.

The Scientific Program will include Named Lectures and concurrent sessions presented by world-renowned speakers across all cardiology themes including imaging, electrophysiology, genetics, heart failure, prevention, basic science, paediatrics and digital health.

August 20-22 | American Association for Bronchology and Interventional Pulmonology (AABIP) 2026 | Denver, Colorado

AABIP 2026 represents a vibrant convergence of thought leaders and front‑line practitioners in advanced bronchoscopy, therapeutic airway procedures, and pleural disease management. Conference themes are thoughtfully structured into key tracks—Advanced Diagnostic Bronchoscopy, Airway‑based Therapeutics, Pleural Diseases, Medical Education, and a special focus on innovation, equity, and healthcare access—catering to a wide spectrum of interests within interventional pulmonology.

September 5-9 | European Respiratory Society (ERS) | Barcelona, Spain

European Respiratory Society (ERS) Congress – an annual event that brings together the world’s respiratory experts to showcase the latest advances in respiratory medicine and science. The ERS Congress 2026 will take place from 5–9 September in Barcelona, Spain. Registration is now open.