Baseline Low-Dose CT Findings in a High-Risk Romanian Population: First Experience with Lung Cancer Screening

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Radiology
• Oncology

Background:

• Low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening significantly reduces lung cancer mortality in high-risk groups.
• Data from Eastern European populations, including Romania, are limited regarding lung cancer screening.
• Romania currently lacks a national lung cancer screening program.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize the baseline demographics of a high-risk Romanian cohort.
• To report findings from the initial round of lung cancer screening using LDCT.
• To identify incidental pulmonary abnormalities in this cohort.

Main Methods:

• An observational, single-center study involving 42 high-risk participants (aged 43-76).
• Baseline LDCT scans were performed and analyzed using the Lung-RADS classification system.
• Descriptive statistics were used to analyze demographic and imaging data.

Main Results:

• The cohort comprised 63% current smokers, 26% former smokers, and 9% never-smokers, with a mean BMI of 28.3.
• 81% of participants had Lung-RADS 1-2 findings; 9% had Lung-RADS 3-4 findings requiring follow-up.
• Common incidental findings included fibrosis (63%), emphysema (5%), and pulmonary infection (5%).

Conclusions:

• Baseline LDCT screening in this Romanian cohort identified predominantly low-risk nodules and smoking-related lung changes.
• The study confirms the clinical feasibility of LDCT screening in Romania.
• Findings underscore the necessity for implementing a structured national lung cancer screening program.