Lung cancer screening is a crucial yet often overlooked part of healthcare. In the U.S., only about 16% of eligible individuals get screened for this disease. A recent study in NEJM Catalyst offers some promising insights. It showcases how the UR Medicine primary care network boosted its screening rate from 33% to nearly 72%.
Who should get screened? The guidelines suggest that people aged 50 to 80 who currently smoke or quit within the last 15 years should consider screening. They should also have a significant smoking history, such as 20 pack-years, and show no signs of lung cancer.
Dr. Robert Fortuna, the study’s lead author, emphasizes the importance of not just screening a high number of patients but also ensuring they receive annual follow-ups. He mentions, “I get screened every year without fail.” Phyllis Semeraro, a 69-year-old from Rochester, found a suspicious spot on her lung through screening. Fortunately, it wasn’t cancerous, and now she never misses her annual CT scan.
The increase in screenings has helped catch cancer cases earlier. In 2023 and 2024, the UR Medicine program diagnosed 63 cases of lung cancer, with a staggering 78% identified in early stages. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.
Yet, awareness about lung cancer screening is still low. It was only recommended in 2013, leading to gaps in implementation. Many eligible people are unaware of their risk or the screening process.
Dr. M. Patricia Rivera shares the challenges: “Identifying candidates for lung cancer screening is complicated. Unlike screenings for other cancers, we need a clear smoking history.”
To tackle this, UR Medicine developed a custom algorithm in its electronic health records. This helps identify eligible patients more effectively. Primary care teams get daily lists of patients due for screening, along with reminders during visits.
Collaboration is key. By uniting primary care, radiology, and pulmonology teams, the program ensures smooth communication and patient journeys. Dr. Fortuna believes this approach can serve as a model for other health systems aiming to enhance their screening processes.
The benefits extend beyond just spotting cancers; many patients walk away relieved after screening. Oben Cintron, 58, found comfort in knowing his lungs were clear, saying, “It got me a little nervous, but in the end, everything worked out.”
Lung cancer screening remains vital to saving lives. For those wanting to quit smoking—a leading cause of lung cancer—resources are available. It’s never too late to make that change.
For more information on screening guidelines, you can check the CDC’s report on cancer prevention here.
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health care professionals, patients and families, cancer, lung cancer, primary care, imaging
