Lung Cancer Screening

This book offers an in-depth exploration of lung cancer screenings, detailing their importance, implementation, and the latest research findings in the field.

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related mortality globally, affecting both men and women. For many years, it was the only major cancer without an evidence-based screening method to help reduce mortality rates. This situation changed in November 2011, when the National Lung Cancer Screening Trial revealed that low-dose lung CT screening was significantly more effective in decreasing deaths among high-risk individuals compared to traditional radiography. As a result, an increasing number of health organizations have begun to endorse this screening method.

In Lung Cancer Screening, Mark Parker and his esteemed colleagues from VCU Health address the urgent need for a detailed guide that outlines the essential components of lung cancer screenings. The initial chapters provide a solid foundation, discussing lung cancer epidemiology and various risk factors beyond just cigarette smoking. Following this, the authors delve into the core elements of establishing a successful lung cancer screening program, including patient eligibility criteria, imaging differences in lung tumors, and the advantages and disadvantages of screening.

This comprehensive resource covers critical topics such as the evolution and future of lung cancer screenings, managing unexpected incidental findings, and utilizing the Lung-RADSTM risk-stratifying system for low-dose chest CT screenings. It also addresses the benefits and potential drawbacks of mass screening programs, such as false positives and over-diagnosis. This essential guide is a valuable reference for radiologists, oncologists, pulmonologists, and internists, particularly for those involved in setting up new lung cancer screening initiatives.