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Brief Report: Improving Lung Cancer Screening Rates: A Pilot Program for Low-Dose CT Implementation in a Community
Maha Zafar1, Manaswini Krishnakumar2, Natasha Dudiki3
1Department of Hospice and Palliative Care, University at Buffalo, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Buffalo, NY.
Abstract:
Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide, with low survival rates due to late-stage diagnosis. We conducted a pilot lung cancer screening program initiated at our community cancer center to improve the utilization of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) for early cancer detection. The program involved structured shared decision-making with primary care physicians (PCPs), a dedicated nodule navigator, and expedited diagnostic processes. Conducted from January 2021 to December 2024, the study showed significant improvements in LDCT screening rates, increasing from 32% to 76% within the first year of implementation. Over 3 years, 6126 patients were referred for LDCT and achieved a pre-determined target of >50% screening rates. The program also led to a rise in lung cancer diagnoses, highlighting the effectiveness of coordinated care and early intervention. Despite challenges such as patient follow-up and potential overdiagnosis, the pilot program demonstrated the potential for similar strategies to enhance lung cancer screening and reduce mortality.