Surgeons and lung cancer screening: rules of engagement

To understand the challenges of screening for lung cancer, surgeons should be familiar with fundamental epidemiologic concepts pertaining to screening and have an understanding of the evidence regarding the various modalities used for screening lung cancer. One large, recent study has confirmed that screening for lung cancer with low-dose computed tomography decreases mortality in high-risk individuals. As a result of these findings, comprehensive screening programs are being developed. High-quality programs should be safe, cost-effective, accessible to high-risk patients, and involve the participation of a multidisciplinary team. Surgeons should be engaged in the implementation of screening programs for lung cancer.