Recommendations for Implementing Lung Cancer Screening with Low-Dose Computed Tomography in Europe

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Radiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Lung cancer screening (LCS) using low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) has demonstrated efficacy in reducing lung cancer mortality.
• Recent European data from the Nelson trial confirms significant mortality reductions in both men and women.
• Positive results have also emerged from screening asbestos-exposed workers in Europe and the USA.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide recommendations for the implementation of LDCT-LCS in Europe.
• To address the economic impact and establish guidelines for effective and safe LCS implementation.
• To consolidate expert consensus on the adoption of LDCT-LCS.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature review on LDCT-LCS was conducted by a dedicated subgroup.
• Findings were presented and discussed at an international expert meeting in Milan in November 2018.
• Consensus was reached among European experts from the Initiative for European Lung Screening (IELS).

Main Results:

• LDCT-LCS has been proven to reduce lung cancer mortality.
• European trials confirm substantial mortality reductions, particularly in women.
• LDCT-LCS shows promise for specific high-risk populations, including asbestos-exposed workers.

Conclusions:

• There is a strong expert consensus supporting the implementation of LDCT-LCS in Europe.
• Further work is needed to define the economic impact and develop comprehensive implementation guidelines.
• The recommendations aim to facilitate the safe and effective rollout of lung cancer screening programs.