Lung Cancer Screening Program Research Articles

Efficacy of lung cancer screening at the American University of Beirut Medical Center.

In Lebanon, a dedicated screening program for lung cancer is absent. Screening is largely based on the recommendation of an informed physician or the initiative of a patient. To better understand the situation, it is important to look at the available data on patients currently being screened for lung cancer in this country. Our aim in this study is to review the data and compare it with that in the literature as well as to assess the efficacy of the screening process followed. Our study accessed the electronic medical records of patients at the American University of Beirut Medical Center (AUBMC), a tertiary care center in Lebanon. We collected information on patients who underwent screening low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scan between June 2019 and June 2021 inclusive. Records of all patients who underwent a non-contrast computed tomography (CT) scan at AUBMC during this period were collected and analyzed. On average, our population had a 52.6 pack-year smoking history. Moreover, 47% of our population had an accurate pack-year reported, while 12% did not have enough information to even estimate their pack-year history. When looking at the accurate and estimated data, 5% of our population did not even meet the ≥20 pack-year smoking history. Eight patients had positive findings on the screening LDCT, which we defined as suspicious findings that require further workup (e.g., PET/CT or biopsy) or other significant incidental findings. A well-organized program for lung cancer screening in Lebanon is absent. Screening largely depends on the initiative of the physician or the patient. We were able to uncover multiple flaws in the screening method used, including poor documentation and follow-up. Although the screening method adopted retained some benefits in terms of detecting early malignancy, it lacked proper organization and was not ideal. A better, systematized screening program is needed to have optimal outcomes.

Implementing a Telehealth Shared Counseling and Decision-Making Visit for Lung Cancer Screening in a Veterans Affairs Medical Center.

Veterans suffer substantial morbidity and mortality from lung cancer. Lung cancer screening (LCS) with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) can reduce mortality. Guidelines recommend counseling and shared decision-making (SDM) to address the benefits and harms of screening and the importance of tobacco cessation before patients undergo screening. We implemented a centralized LCS program at the Iowa City Veterans Affairs Medical Center with a nurse program coordinator (NPC)-led telephone visit. Our multidisciplinary team ensured that veterans referred from primary care met eligibility criteria, that LDCT results were correctly coded by radiology, and that pulmonary promptly evaluated abnormal LDCT. The NPC mailed a decision aid to the veteran and scheduled a SDM telephone visit. We surveyed veterans after the visit using validated measures to assess knowledge, decisional conflict, and quality of decision making. We conducted 105 SDM visits, and 91 veterans agreed to LDCT. Overall, 84% of veterans reported no decisional conflict, and 59% reported high-quality decision making. While most veterans correctly answered questions about the harms of radiation, false-positive results, and overdiagnosis, few knew when to stop screening, and most overestimated the benefit of screening and the predictive value of an abnormal scan. Tobacco cessation interventions were offered to 72 currently smoking veterans. We successfully implemented an LCS program that provides SDM and tobacco cessation support using a centralized telehealth model. While veterans were confident about screening decisions, knowledge testing indicated important deficits, and many did not engage meaningfully in SDM. Clinicians should frame the decision as patient centered at the time of referral, highlight the importance of SDM, and be able to provide adequate decision support.

Public Attitudes Towards Lung Cancer Screening in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, and it is ranked as the first cause of death in more than 100 countries around the world. The aim of this study was to explore the knowledge and attitude of the general population in Saudi Arabia toward lung cancer screening. A cross-sectional study employing an online survey was conducted between November 2021 and February 2022 in Saudi Arabia. This study utilized a previously developed questionnaire instrument. Logistic regression was used to identify predictors of positive attitude toward lung cancer screening. A total of 473 participants were involved in this study. The majority of the study participants (74.6%) reported that they are current smokers. Almost 31.5% of the study participants reported that if lung cancer is detected early, the person's chance of surviving is poor to very poor. The majority of the study participants reported that they would be willing to do tests to diagnose lung cancer if you were invited by the Ministry of Health or their doctor. Males, participants aged (24-34 years), and current smokers were more likely to have positive attitude towards lung cancer screening (p ≤ 0.05). On the other hand, patients aged 46 years and over and those with higher education had less positive attitude towards lung cancer screening (p ≤ 0.05). This is the first study to look into the general public's attitudes toward lung cancer screening in Saudi Arabia. According to our findings, the majority of people believe that early detection of lung cancer can lead to improved results and have a favourable attitude toward lung cancer screening if it is indicated. Thus, incorporating lung cancer screening into the local guidelines in at-risk population is highly recommended and considering the launch of nation-wide lung cancer screening program is advised.

Systematic Review of Lung Cancer Screening: Advancements and Strategies for Implementation.

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Europe, with low survival rates primarily due to late-stage diagnosis. Early detection can significantly improve survival rates, but lung cancer screening is not currently implemented in Italy. Many countries have implemented lung cancer screening programs for high-risk populations, with studies showing a reduction in mortality. This review aimed to identify key areas for establishing a lung cancer screening program in Italy. A literature search was conducted in October 2022, using the PubMed and Scopus databases. Items of interest included updated evidence, approaches used in other countries, enrollment and eligibility criteria, models, cost-effectiveness studies, and smoking cessation programs. A literature search yielded 61 scientific papers, highlighting the effectiveness of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening in reducing mortality among high-risk populations. The National Lung Screening Trial (NLST) in the United States demonstrated a 20% reduction in lung cancer mortality with LDCT, and other trials confirmed its potential to reduce mortality by up to 39% and detect early-stage cancers. However, false-positive results and associated harm were concerns. Economic evaluations generally supported the cost-effectiveness of LDCT screening, especially when combined with smoking cessation interventions for individuals aged 55 to 75 with a significant smoking history. Implementing a screening program in Italy requires the careful consideration of optimal strategies, population selection, result management, and the integration of smoking cessation. Resource limitations and tailored interventions for subpopulations with low-risk perception and non-adherence rates should be addressed with multidisciplinary expertise.

Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the primary lung cancer screening program in Akita Prefecture, a region with the fastest aging population in Japan.

Akita Prefecture has the largest proportion of older inhabitants and the highest cancer mortality rate in Japan. Lung cancer is one of the biggest killers, and early detection is critical. Chest X-ray examinations are the main screening method for lung cancer; however, the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the screening system. Here, we evaluate how COVID-19 has affected lung cancer screening in Akita Prefecture. Using the Akita General Health Corporation database, the average annual number of chest X-ray screening tests, close examinations and lung cancer diagnoses (stratified by sex and age) was evaluated during 2016-2019, and compared with the 2020 values. Furthermore, data on lung cancer registrations from 2018 to 2020 were obtained from the Collaborative Akita Prefecture Hospital-Based Cancer Registration System and analyzed. The average annual number of screening tests, close examinations and lung cancer diagnoses declined (by >50%) between 2016 to 2019 and 2020, especially among older people (aged ≥65 years). Furthermore, by stage, the number of patients with early-stage lung cancer (stage 0-I) decreased, and the number with advanced-stage cancer (stage IV) increased. The COVID-19 pandemic reduced lung cancer screening participation, especially among the older adult population in Akita Prefecture, resulting in a decrease in lung cancer diagnoses through screening. This might have reduced the number of early-stage cancer registrations. It is necessary to improve health education among the public regarding the importance of chest X-ray screening. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2023; 23: 622-627.

Integrating Smoking Cessation Into Low-Dose Computed Tomography Lung Cancer Screening: Results of the Ontario, Canada Pilot

IntroductionLow-dose computed tomography screening in high-risk individuals reduces lung cancer mortality. To inform the implementation of a provincial lung cancer screening program, Ontario Health undertook a Pilot study, which integrated smoking cessation (SC). MethodsThe impact of integrating SC into the Pilot was assessed by the following: rate of acceptance of a SC referral; proportion of individuals who were currently smoking cigarettes and attended a SC session; the quit rate at 1 year; change in the number of quit attempts; change in Heaviness of Smoking Index; and relapse rate in those who previously smoked. ResultsA total of 7768 individuals were recruited predominantly through primary care physician referral. Of these, 4463 were currently smoking and were risk assessed and referred to SC services, irrespective of screening eligibility: 3114 (69.8%) accepted referral to an in-hospital SC program, 431 (9.7%) to telephone quit lines, and 50 (1.1%) to other programs. In addition, 4.4% reported no intention to quit and 8.5% were not interested in participating in a SC program. Of the 3063 screen-eligible individuals who were smoking at baseline low-dose computed tomography scan, 2736 (89.3%) attended in-hospital SC counseling. The quit rate at 1 year was 15.5% (95% confidence interval: 13.4%–17.7%; range: 10.5%–20.0%). Improvements were also observed in Heaviness of Smoking Index (p < 0.0001), number of cigarettes smoked per day (p < 0.0001), time to first cigarette (p < 0.0001), and number of quit attempts (p < 0.001). Of those who reported having quit within the previous 6 months, 6.3% had resumed smoking at 1 year. Furthermore, 92.7% of the respondents reported satisfaction with the hospital-based SC program. ConclusionsOn the basis of these observations, the Ontario Lung Screening Program continues to recruit through primary care providers, to assess risk for eligibility using trained navigators, and to use an opt-out approach to referral for cessation services. In addition, initial in-hospital SC support and intensive follow-on cessation interventions will be provided to the extent possible.

Update on lung cancer

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in Canada and worldwide. Major scientific advances in the last decade have dramatically changed the way we detect and treat lung cancers. British Columbia, Ontario and Quebec have recently launched lung cancer screening programs for high-risk individuals using evidence-based risk prediction models, and many other provinces are in the active planning phase. This review focuses on non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), which comprises 80-85% of lung cancers. For patients diagnosed with advanced or metastatic NSCLC, we now have systemic therapy options—targeted therapies, chemotherapies and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs)—that are tailored to the molecular characterization of individual tumor samples for DNA/RNA alterations and PD-L1 protein expression. Molecular characterization is also becoming increasingly crucial for patients diagnosed with earlier and potentially curable NSCLC, as targeted therapies and ICIs make their way into the adjuvant and neoadjuvant therapy space, partnering with radiation and surgery to improve outcomes for patients receiving multimodality curative-intent treatment.

Racial Disparities in Lung Cancer Screening Among Veterans, 2013 to 2021

Racial disparities in lung cancer screening (LCS) are often ascribed to barriers such as cost, insurance status, access to care, and transportation. Because these barriers are minimized within the Veterans Affairs system, there is a question of whether similar racial disparities exist within a Veterans Affairs health care system in North Carolina. To examine whether racial disparities in completing LCS after referral exist at the Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care System (DVAHCS) and, if so, what factors are associated with screening completion. This cross-sectional study assessed veterans referred to LCS between July 1, 2013, and August 31, 2021, at the DVAHCS. All included veterans self-identified as White or Black and met the US Preventive Services Task Force eligibility criteria as of January 1, 2021. Participants who died within 15 months of consultation or who were screened before consultation were excluded. Self-reported race. Screening completion was defined as completing computed tomography for LCS. The associations among screening completion, race, and demographic and socioeconomic risk factors were assessed using logistic regression models. A total of 4562 veterans (mean [SD] age, 65.4 [5.7] years; 4296 [94.2%] male; 1766 [38.7%] Black and 2796 [61.3%] White) were referred for LCS. Of all veterans referred, 1692 (37.1%) ultimately completed screening; 2707 (59.3%) never connected with the LCS program after referral and an informational mailer or telephone call, indicating a critical point in the LCS process. Screening rates were substantially lower among Black compared with White veterans (538 [30.5%] vs 1154 [41.3%]), with Black veterans having 0.66 times lower odds (95% CI, 0.54-0.80) of screening completion after adjusting for demographic and socioeconomic factors. This cross-sectional study found that after referral for initial LCS via a centralized program, Black veterans had 34% lower odds of LCS screening completion compared with White veterans, a disparity that persisted even after accounting for numerous demographic and socioeconomic factors. A critical point in the screening process was when veterans must connect with the screening program after referral. These findings may be used to design, implement, and evaluate interventions to improve LCS rates among Black veterans.

Motivation, acceptability and attitudes toward lung cancer screening among persons who attend a tobacco cessation program: A multicenter survey in Italy

This study aimed to evaluate smoking cessation (SC) motivation and the acceptability of a lung cancer screening (LCS) program with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) among people who attend SC programs. A multicenter survey was conducted in the period January-December 2021 involving 197 people who attended group or individual SC courses in Reggio Emilia and Tuscany. Questionnaires, information sheets, and decision aids about the potential benefits and harms of LCS with LDCT were distributed at different time points during the course. The wish to protect own health (66%) was the most frequent reason given for quitting smoking, followed by cigarette dependence (40.6%) and current health problems (30.5%). Half of the participants (56%) considered periodic health checks including LDCT, as an advantageous activity. The great majority of participants were in favor of LCS (92%), with only 8% being indifferent, and no one was against these programs. Interestingly, those with sufficiently high smoking-related LC risk to be eligible for LCS and those attending the individual course were less in favor of LCS but also less concerned about the possible harms associated with LCS. The type of counseling was a significant predictor for both LCS acceptability and perceived harm of LCS. The favorable perception of LCS in people attending SC courses, despite the considerable preoccupation with potential harms, is an important finding of this study. Introducing a discussion on the benefits and harms of LCS in SC programs may prepare persons who smoke to make informed decisions on utilizing LCS.

Hepatic Steatosis Detection by Computer Vision During Chest Low-Dose Computed Tomography in Lung Cancer Screening Program

Background. Chest low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) is used in lung cancer screening, but the study data can also be used to assess the liver condition, including the hepatic steatosis (HS) detection. However, radiologists often do not pay attention to liver changes due to the focus on the chest. Objective: to determine the prevalence of HS during chest LDST among lung cancer screening patients using a computer vision (CV) system. Material and methods. For a retrospective study, 300 chest LDCT were taken from Moscow lung cancer screening in 2018–2020. Hepatic attenuation analysis was performed by CV, the values &lt; 40 HU were considered as HS. The text protocols of CT scans were analysed and compared with decreased hepatic attenuation revealed by CV system. Results. 291 patients were analysed, the median age for the sample was 65 [61; 70] years. The mean hepatic attenuation was 55.6 ± 14.8 HU. Hepatic attenuation &lt; 40 HU was found in 13% patients (23 (16.1%) males and 14 (9.5%) females), a statistically significant difference was revealed among these patients (p = 0.04). Six (4.2%) males and 4 (2.7%) females were at risk for HS (40–45 HU). The examination of text protocols showed no pathology discovered in all cases. Conclusion. The prevalence of CT signs for HS among the lung cancer screening group in Moscow was 13%. The absence of HS in text protocols highlights the importance of using CV systems in the routine practice.

Characteristics and outcomes of patients with small cell lung cancer (SCLC) detected with CT screening at a single health system.

8581 Background: At diagnosis, the majority of SCLC patients have extensive-stage disease, and their median survival is only 13 months, even with the addition of checkpoint inhibitors. Previous CT screening trials did not reveal reduction in mortality for SCLC patients. The aim of our study was to analyze the baseline characteristics and clinical outcomes of SCLC patients diagnosed with low-dose CT scan as a part of lung cancer screening program. Methods: A retrospective chart review-based study of SCLC patients diagnosed clinically or by lung cancer screening between January 2018 and June 2022 at the Henry Ford Health System was conducted. Baseline characteristics, details of SCLC diagnosis and treatment, and outcome were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using Chi-squared test, T-test and log-rank test. Results: Of the 258 patients who met eligibility criteria, 34 were diagnosed by lung cancer screening. Patients diagnosed with screening tended to be older (mean age- 70.5 years vs. 67.3 years, p=0.010). There were no differences in gender distribution, race and smoking status. Mean smoking history was 43 pack-years in both groups. Among screen-detected patients, 73.5% had limited-stage disease compared to 36.6% among clinically detected patients (p&lt;0.001). No significant difference in the presence of brain metastases at diagnosis was observed. Among screen-detected patients, 97.1% received any therapy compared to 85.3% among the clinically detected patients (p=0.105). Overall survival (OS) was significantly better in screen-detected patients, with a 3-year survival rate of 45.5% vs. 17% (p=0.00027). By multivariable analysis, OS was better in screen-detected patients (HR=0.37, 95% CI 0.20-0.68; p=0.001) (Table). There was no significant difference in progression-free survival between the groups. Conclusions: Our results demonstrate that SCLC patients diagnosed through the lung cancer screening program have better overall survival rates than those diagnosed clinically. These results suggest that developing appropriate screening measures may impact SCLC-related mortality. [Table: see text]

A multivariate analysis of low-dose CT lung cancer screening in a Michigan community hospital network.

10576 Background: Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. The USPSTF recommended screening for lung cancer with low-dose chest computer tomography (LDCT) in 2013. This was based on the National Lung Screening Trial (NLST) which showed a 20% relative reduction in mortality from LDCT compared with chest radiography in high-risk individuals. The major NLST eligibility criteria were age 55-74, a 30 + pack year smoking history and current smoking status or having quit in the last 15 years. The impact of other risk factors on screening results besides inclusion criteria is unknown. We sought to identify other factors for the risk of lung cancer detection in screened individuals. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study employing a Michigan based McLaren Hospital Network Lung Cancer Screening Program (LCSP) database from 2015-2022. Participant eligibility in screening was the USPSTF criteria except for an age range of 50-80. Analyses were stratified by BMI, smoking pack-years, insurance status, smoking status, sex, other CT findings, pre- vs. during COVID pandemic (before and after January 2020). Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used for odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) as estimates of the relative risk of an elevated Lung-RADS category ≥3 (high risk of detecting lung cancer). Results: A total of 2638 subjects, 49.91% females, 50.09% males, mean BMI 29.50 ± 7.17 (SD), pack-years 44.52 ±18.29, Medicaid 6.66%, Medicare 32.01%, Private Insurance 57.62%, Self-pay /unknown 3.71%. Current smoker 65.49%, Former smoker 34.51%, other CT findings 51.99%, pre-COVID 46.08%, during COVID pandemic 53.92%. Lung-RADS category 0 (0.04%), 1 (35.33%), 2, (50.61%), 3 (6.56%), 4a (4.85%), 4b (1.55%), 4x (1.06%). A statistically significant association with a Lung-RADS category ≥3 was found with lower BMI, OR=0.980 (95% CI, 0.969-0.991), p=0.0005, and female gender, OR=1.232 (95% CI, 1.039-1.462), p=0.0166 (Table). Conclusions: In our study cohort a lower-than-average BMI and also female gender were statistically correlated with an elevated Lung-RADS category ≥3. These findings might be incorporated into a risk stratification model, however further larger studies are needed to validate our findings. [Table: see text]

National lung cancer screening rates among women veterans within the Veterans’ Health Administration.

1543 Background: Lung cancer is the number one cause of cancer related death among women in the United States. United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPTF) lung cancer screening (LCS) guidelines recommend annual low dose computed tomography (LDCT) among high-risk populations. The data specifically on women veterans is sparse so we retrospectively examined LCS rates among women veterans within the VHA. Methods: Women veterans ages 50-80, current or former (quit within 15 years) smokers from 2013- 2021 were identified through the VA corporate data warehouse (CDW). Captured characteristics included: demographics, smoking history, and cancer screening history (lung, breast, cervical). Data was analyzed using R Studio software. Results: Women veterans with a history of smoking (n=40,299) tended to be aged ≥60, white (66%), single (69%), unemployed (64%), urban dwelling (67%), and residing in Southeast U.S. (31%). Overall, cancer screening rates among women veterans was low (9% lung; 27% breast; 21% cervical). Of the women not screened for lung cancer (91%; n=36,837), 11% (n=4, 016) had a personal history of cancer. While pack-year history was not documented for the vast majority (92%), 7% (n= 2, 729) reported a &gt;30 pack-year smoking history (guideline at the time). Of these &gt;30 pack-year smokers, 88% (n=2,418) were not screened for lung cancer. Other significant demographic predictors of increased LCS rates included Southeast Veterans Integrated Service Network (VISN region) and comorbidities such as bipolar disorder and diabetes likely due to increased exposure to healthcare. Conclusions: LCS rates, as well as breast and cervical, among women veterans within the VHA is low. The lack of documented pack-year history among women veterans with a history of smoking is concerning. Increased documentation of pack-year history may aid in identifying women for LCS. Efforts are ongoing nationally to implement an equitable centralized LCS program for all veterans and as part of that effort the Birmingham VA Health Care System has utilized their Lung precision Oncology program (LPOP) funding to pilot a structured lung cancer screening program within our Women’s Health Clinic in 2022.

Large retrospective validation study of metabolomic biomarkers for resectable lung cancer detection and risk assessment.

3071 Background: Cancer can be regarded as a metabolic disease and many studies published aimed at identifying robust metabolites for lung cancer diagnosis using plasma samples. Regardless of the lung cancer staging, most of these studies were performed on relatively small sample sizes. The purpose of this study is to validate whether a panel of metabolomic biomarkers would improve risk assessment for lung cancer detection in 800 plasma samples from patients that underwent lung cancer resection, and to understand the potential role and intersection between lung cancer and other lung diseases. Methods: A blinded case-control study was performed using plasma samples from 586 patients with biopsy-confirmed lung cancer compared to 214 controls from the same institutional biorepository to evaluate the performance of a 5+ metabolites biomarker panel for lung cancer detection. The control group consists of 90 healthy individuals and 124 with other non-neoplastic lung diseases including asthma, COPD, bronchiectasis and COVID. The lung cancer subgroups include early-stage (Stage I &amp;II) adenocarcinoma and squamous cells carcinoma, advanced stages (Stage III &amp; IV) NSCLC and neuroendocrine tumors. In this study, plasma metabolic profiles were performed using different liquid chromatography methods coupled with a targeted and quantitative mass spectrometry approach. Metabolite concentrations, clinical data, and smoking history were used to develop logistic regression models to identify lung cancer at different stages using significant biomarkers. The area under the receiver operator characteristic curves (AUC), sensitivities and specificities at selected cut off points were calculated for each cancer stage. Results: Univariate and multivariate statistical analyses confirmed the performance of our 5+ metabolites panel (β-HBA, PC aa C38:0, PC ae C40:6, citric acid, tryptophan, and etc.) as being significantly different between controls and lung cancer cases. Linear regression model using metabolites alone yielded an AUC of 0.89 for lung cancer at all stages. When adding smoking status, the models achieved an AUC of 0.91 with sensitivity of 91% and specificity over 78% using a risk prediction threshold of 0.657. Conclusions: The blood-based metabolites panel validated on our current retrospective study exhibited robust performance for resectable lung cancer detection and risk assessment. This metabolomic panel assay demonstrates potential diagnostic applications and clinical utility for patient selection that require further follow-up and confirmation using LDCT or other lung imaging modalities. The inclusion of other lung diseases in the control group is more representative of a real clinical setting suggesting that this blood-based assay could be offered to the medical community. Further studies may also confirm its utility in the context of a lung cancer screening program.

Preliminary results from the Female Asian Nonsmoker Screening Study (FANSS).

8510 Background: Lung cancer (LC) is the leading cause of cancer death in Asian Americans and unfortunately the majority are diagnosed at advanced or late stages. In Asia, approximately 60-80% of female LC patients are never smokers. Current screening in the U.S. with low-dose CT (LDCT) Chest scans is offered only to current or former smokers based on the National Lung Screening Trial (NLST). The LC detection rate in NLST was 1.1%. The TALENT study, a LC screening study for high-risk nonsmokers in Taiwan reported a LC detection rate of 2.6% which included invasive adenocarcinoma (adeno), adeno in situ, minimally invasive adeno and adenosquamous carcinoma. Invasive adeno detection rate was 1.52%. We are conducting the ongoing FANSS in the U.S. to screen female Asian nonsmokers with LDCT Chest scans to evaluate the feasibility of a LC screening program in this population. We report preliminary results here. Methods: This is an IRB-approved, prospective, multicenter study (NYU, MGH, UCI). Inclusion criteria are women, age between 40-74 years old (yo), never smoked or smoked &lt;100 cigarettes in one's lifetime and identify as from Asian descent (report ancestry or race from the continent of Asia). Participants (pts) with history of LC or treatment of any cancer &lt;5 years ago are excluded. Following informed consent, eligible pts undergo a shared-decision making discussion prior to obtaining a baseline LDCT Chest scan, read according to Lung-RADS 1.1 with plan for annual LDCT for two additional years. A plasma-based assay to analyze cell-free DNA (cfDNA) fragments for early detection of cancer by Delfi Diagnostics (Baltimore, MD) is sent at the time of each scan. A questionnaire regarding ethnicity, family history and environmental exposures is collected at baseline. Results: From 3/1/21 to 1/15/23, 222 pts signed consent and 201 had a baseline LDCT at NYU. Age range was 40-74 yo and median age of 56.8 yo. 83 (41%) reported a family history of LC. Of 201 pts who completed a baseline LDCT, 87 (43%) were Lung-RADS 1, 101 (50%) were Lung-RADS 2, 6 (3%) were Lung-RADS 3 and 7 (3.5%) were Lung-RADS 4. 5 pts with Lung-RADS 3 and 3 pts with Lung-RADS 4 have solid, subsolid or groundglass nodules &gt;6mm that remain in close follow-up. 3 pts were diagnosed with invasive lung adeno for a LC detection rate of 1.5%; 2 are stage IIB and 1 is stage IIIC. All pts were surgically resected, EGFR mutation positive and are receiving adjuvant osimertinib. Analysis of the cfDNA fragmentation profiles is ongoing. Conclusions: Our data shows that LC screening in Asian female nonsmokers is feasible. Preliminary results demonstrate an invasive adeno detection rate comparable with TALENT and higher than in NLST. Early detection brings new meaning with the recent FDA approval for adjuvant targeted therapy in early stage LC. The expansion of LC screening guidelines to other high-risk populations warrants further attention. FANSS is continuing to accrue at additional U.S. sites this year. Clinical trial information: NCT05164757 .

The probability of lung cancer in patients with incidentally detected pulmonary nodules detected via low-dose computed tomography screening in China.

10569 Background: Low dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening has been proven to be effective in reducing lung cancer mortality, but the ensuing high false-positive and overdiagnosis rates shackle the effectiveness of lung cancer screening (LCS) in China. Nodule malignancy prediction models may be an applicable solution. Methods: We developed and internally validated the model using data from the ongoing Henan province Cancer Screening Program in Urban China (CanSPUC). From 2013 to 2021, 23031 heavy smokers underwent baseline screening with LDCT; 2553 participants were diagnosed with pulmonary nodules. Detailed questionnaire, physical assessment and follow-up were completed for all participants. We then externally validated the model using the National Lung Screening Trial (NLST) dataset consisting of 10485 lung nodules in 4660 participants. Multivariable Cox proportional risk regression models were used. Data analysis was performed from July 1, 2022, through December 31, 2022. Results: A total of 111 and 1089 lung cancer cases with a median follow-up duration of 3.7 years occurred in the Henan CanSPUC and NLST study, respectively. Age, gender, physical activity, consumption of pickled food, history of silicosis or pneumoconiosis, nodule type, size, calcification, and pleural retraction sign were included into the model. The AUC (95% CI) of the model for 5-year lung cancer risk was 0.857 (0.801, 0.914) and 0.847 (0.829, 0.881) in the training set and validation set, respectively. Compared with Mayo model, VA model, PKU model, and Brock model, the Henan CanSPUC model yield statistically better discriminatory performance (all P values &lt; 0.05). The model calibrated well across the deciles of predicted risk in both the overall population and all subgroups. Conclusions: The model developed and validated in this study may be used to estimate the probability of lung cancer in nodules detected at baseline LDCT, allowing more efficient risk-adapted follow-up in population-based LCS programs.

European guidelines for the surgical management of pure ground-glass opacities and part-solid nodules: Task Force of the European Association of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery and the European Society of Thoracic Surgeons.

Pulmonary nodules are often encountered by respiratory physicians, radiologists, and thoracic surgeons alike. The European Society of Thoracic Surgery (ESTS) and European Association of Cardiothoracic Surgery (EACTS) established a multidisciplinary collaboration of clinicians with expertise in managing pulmonary nodules with the aim of producing the first joint comprehensive review of the scientific literature, with a specific focus on the management of pure ground glass opacities and part-solid nodules. The scope of the document has been defined by the EACTS and ESTS governing bodies and focuses on six areas of main interest agreed upon by the Task Force. These include: management of solitary and multiple pure ground glass nodules, solitary part-solid nodules, identifying the non-palpable lesion, the role of minimally invasive surgery and the decision making behind sub-lobar versus lobar resection. The literature revealed that with the increasing use of incidental CT scans and CT lung cancer screening programs, the detection of early-stage lung cancer is going to rise with a higher number of potential cancers presenting on the ground glass and part-solid nodule spectrum. Given that the gold standard for improved survival is surgical resection, there is an urgent need for comprehensive characterisation of these nodules and guidelines that are directed towards their surgical management. It is recommended that standard decision-making tools are used to determine the risk of malignancy and thus guide referral for surgical management and decisions for surgical resection are made in a multidisciplinary setting with equitable consideration given to radiological characteristics, the evolution of the lesion, presence of solid component, patient fitness and co-morbidities. Given the recent surge in robust level I data comparing sublobar and lobar resection with the release of JCOG0802 and CALGB140503 data, a global overview of an individual case must be adopted into clinical practice. This set of recommendations are based on the available literature; however, close collaboration in the design and conduct of randomized controlled trials is still of utmost importance to answer further questions in this rapidly evolving field.

Prevalence and outcomes of interstitial lung abnormalities in a Canadian lung cancer screening trial

RATIONALE Interstitial lung abnormalities (ILA) are radiographic interstitial findings that are incidentally identified on chest imaging performed for other reasons. ILAs have been identified on chest computed tomography (CT) performed as part of lung cancer screening programs. OBJECTIVES This study characterizes the prevalence and outcomes associated with ILA in a Canadian lung cancer screening cohort. METHODS Patients were identified from the Alberta lung cancer screening trial, a 5-year cohort study. CT reports were screened for terms associated with ILA including specific radiologic features and CT patterns. These were further characterized as non-subpleural, subpleural nonfibrotic and subpleural fibrotic, consistent with published definitions. Retrospective chart review was conducted for those with ILA to define demographics, lung function, and longitudinal outcomes including subsequent investigations for interstitial lung disease (ILD), treatment, and survival. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Of 806 patients in the lung cancer screening study, 30 (3.7%) were identified as having ILA, with two-thirds (67%) having subpleural fibrotic abnormalities. Half of patients were referred to a Respirologist and underwent pulmonary function testing. Over a median follow-up period of two years, none were diagnosed with an idiopathic interstitial pneumonia, or started on immunomodulatory or antifibrotic therapy. Three of 30 (10%) patients demonstrated disease progression over time, all of whom had subpleural fibrotic ILA on baseline chest CT. CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of ILA in this Canadian lung cancer screening cohort was 3.7%. These data should inform the development of standardized reporting and follow-up for ILA as lung cancer screening programs are implemented.

National Survey of Lung Cancer Screening Practices in Veterans Health Administration Facilities

Lung cancer screening can save lives through the early detection of lung cancer, and professional societies recommend key lung cancer screening program components to ensure high-quality screening. Yet, little is known about the key components that comprise the various screening program models in routine clinical settings. The objective was to compare the utilization of these key components across centralized, hybrid, and decentralized lung cancer screening programs. The survey was designed to identify current structures and processes of lung cancer screening programs. It was administered electronically to Veterans Health Administration facilities nationally (N=122) between August and December 2021. Results were analyzed between March and August 2022 and stratified by self-identified lung cancer screening program type, and we tested the hypothesis that centralized screening programs would be more likely to have implemented practices that support lung cancer screening, followed by hybrid and decentralized programs, using the Cochran-Armitage trend test. Overall, 69 (56.6%) facilities completed the survey, and respondents were lung cancer screening coordinators (39.1%), pulmonologists (33.3%), and oncologists (10.1%). Facilities most frequently self-identified as having a centralized (37.7%) program model, followed by identifying as having hybrid (30.4%) and decentralized (20.3%) programs. There was varying implementation of practices to support lung cancer screening, with hybrid and decentralized programs less likely to have lung cancer screening registries, lung cancer screening steering committees, or dedicated lung cancer screening coordinators. Although there is overlap between the components of various lung cancer screening program types, centralized programs more frequently implemented practices before the initial screening to support lung cancer screening. This work provides a path for future investigations to identify which lung cancer screening practices are effective to improve lung cancer screening outcomes, which could help inform implementation in settings with limited resources.

Validation of lung cancer polygenic risk scores in a high-risk case-control cohort

PurposeScreening with low-dose computed tomography reduces lung cancer (LC) mortality. Risk prediction models used for screening selection do not include genetic variables. Here, we investigated the performance of previously published polygenic risk scores (PRSs) for LC, considering their potential to improve screening selection. MethodsWe validated 9 PRSs in a high-risk case-control cohort, comprising genotype data from 652 surgical patients with LC and 550 cancer-free, high-risk (PLCOM2012 score ≥ 1.51%) participants of the Manchester Lung Health Check, a community-based LC screening program (n = 550). Discrimination (area under the curve [AUC]) between cases and controls was assessed for each PRS independently and alongside clinical risk factors. ResultsMedian age was 67 years, 53% were female, 46% were current smokers, and 76% were National Lung Screening Trial eligible. Median PLCOM2012 score among controls was 3.4%, 80% of cases were early stage. All PRSs significantly improved discrimination, AUC increased between +0.002 (P = .02) and +0.015 (P < .0001), compared with clinical risk factors alone. The best-performing PRS had an independent AUC of 0.59. Two novel loci, in the DAPK1 and MAGI2 genes, were significantly associated with LC risk. ConclusionPRSs may improve LC risk prediction and screening selection. Further research, particularly examining clinical utility and cost-effectiveness, is required.