CT-based screening for lung cancer can significantly reduce death rates from the disease, according to the findings of a major UK trial.
Some 4,000 high risk people took part in the trial, with about half receiving CT screening between 2011 and 2013, researchers have reported.
They concluded that screening led to a 16% relative reduction in lung cancer mortality over the next seven years. There were 30 deaths among those who underwent screening and 46 among those who received usual care.
The findings were reported to the IASLC World Lung Cancer Conference. The researchers say they are similar to other international trials. It could lead to a national programme of lung screening in the UK.
Researcher Professor John Field, of the University of Liverpool, said: “The UKLS mortality data and recent meta-analysis provides the impetus to now put in place a long-term lung cancer screening or lung health lung programme incorporating LDCT screening in the UK and also encourage nations in Europe to start their own programmes. Lung cancer early detection and surgical intervention saves lives.”
Professor Stephen Duffy, Queen Mary University and lead UKLS statistician said: "These results add to the international evidence that low dose CT screening reduces the risk of death from lung cancer. They also demonstrate that such screening can be made to work in the UK. Low dose CT can be added to the armoury of potential tools for the control of lung cancer."
Lung cancer mortality reduction by LDCT screening: UKLS randomised trial results and international meta-analysis. Lancet Regional Health Europe 11 September 2021
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