Evaluating Potential Racial Inequities in Low-dose Computed Tomography Screening for Lung Cancer

Abstract

BackgroundLung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the US, and significant racial disparities exist in lung cancer outcomes. For example, Black men experience higher lung cancer incidence and mortality rates than their White counterparts. New screening recommendations for low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) promote earlier detection of lung cancer in at-risk populations and can potentially help mitigate racial disparities in lung cancer mortality if administered equitably. Yet, little is known about the extent of racial differences in uptake of LDCT. ObjectiveTo evaluate potential racial disparities in LDCT screening in a large community-based cancer center in central North Carolina. MethodsWe conducted a retrospective study of the initial patients undergoing LDCT in a community-based cancer center (n = 262). We used the Pearson chi-squared test to assess potential racial disparities in LDCT screening. ResultsStudy results suggest that Black patients may be less likely than White patients to receive LDCT screening when eligible (χ2 = 51.41, p < 0.0001). ConclusionCollaboration among healthcare providers, researchers, and decision makers is needed to promote LDCT equity.