Nodule Characteristics, Clinical Risk Factors, and Radiologist Experience as Predictors of Positive Baseline LDCT...

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Oncology
• Public Health

Background:

• Early lung cancer detection via low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) improves patient outcomes.
• Identifying predictors of positive baseline LDCT findings is crucial for optimizing screening programs, especially in regional settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify independent predictors of positive baseline LDCT findings in a regional screening program.
• To inform targeted lung cancer screening strategies.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of baseline LDCT screenings in Vojvodina, Serbia (2024).
• Inclusion of adults aged 50-74 with significant smoking history.
• Evaluation of lung nodules using Lung-RADS and multivariable logistic regression to identify predictors of positive outcomes (Lung-RADS 3, 4A, 4B, 4X).

Main Results:

• 17.6% of participants had positive baseline LDCT findings.
• Independent predictors of positivity included nodule type (semi-solid, solid), nodule morphology (endobronchial), nodule diameter, presence of COPD, patient age, and radiologist experience (<10 years).

Conclusions:

• Baseline LDCT positivity is multifactorial, influenced by nodule characteristics, patient factors (sociodemographic, clinical), and radiologist experience.
• Findings support the development of targeted screening strategies for high-risk populations to enhance efficiency and cost-effectiveness.