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

Low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening has demonstrated significant reductions in lung cancer mortality among high-risk individuals. However, data from Eastern European populations remain scarce, and no national screening program currently exists in Romania.

To describe the baseline demographic characteristics, LDCT findings, and incidental pulmonary abnormalities in a high-risk Romanian cohort undergoing the first round of lung cancer screening.

This single-center, observational study included 42 participants aged 43-76 years (mean 56.4), all of whom underwent baseline LDCT during one month in 2025. Participants were categorized according to the Lung-RADS system, and incidental findings were recorded. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed for demographic and imaging variables.

The cohort included 27 smokers (63%), 11 former smokers (26%), and 4 never-smokers (9%), with a mean BMI of 28.3. Most participants (81%) were classified as Lung-RADS 1-2, while 4 participants (9%) had Lung-RADS 3-4 findings requiring closer follow-up. The most frequent incidental pulmonary abnormalities were fibrosis (63%), followed by emphysema (5%), pulmonary infection (5%), and others (2%).

Baseline LDCT screening in this Romanian high-risk cohort revealed a predominance of low-risk nodules and smoking-related lung changes. These findings highlight both clinical feasibility and the need for structured lung cancer screening implementation at the national level.