[Screening for Lung Cancer: Current Status]

The evidence for the benefit and risks of lung cancer screening is based on a single large randomised controlled trial that showed a significant reduction in lung cancer mortality among lung cancer patients in the CT screening group compared to the control group. However, there are significant risks to the proven benefit. The large and unresolved problem in CT screening for lung cancer is the high rate of false positive findings. Further diagnostic work-up of these findings often requires invasive procedures. The complications that may occur are the main risk associated with CT screening for lung cancer. The German and European specialist associations are currently still holding back a recommendation for comprehensive CT screening for lung cancer. The risk benefit ratio is assessed as unfavourable. The results are awaited of the ongoing European studies ("NELSON" in the Netherlands and "LUSI" in Germany), which probably will be available by the end of 2018. Data are expected on more effective work-up algorithms with lower rates of false positive findings and thus lower complication rates. With these data, there will be a new risk benefit assessment.