2022 World Conference on Lung Cancer (ePosters)-EP01.03-009. Cost-effectiveness of Lung Cancer Screening in New Zealand Varies by Ethnicity

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A study conducted in New Zealand found that the cost-effectiveness of lung cancer screening using low dose CT scans (LDCT) varies by ethnicity. Indigenous populations, such as Māori, experience a disproportionate burden of lung cancer. The study aimed to assess the cost-effectiveness and impacts on health inequalities for different ethnic groups.<br /><br />The study used a Markov macrosimulation model to estimate the health-adjusted life-years (HALYs), costs, and cost-effectiveness of biennial LDCT screening for Māori and non-Māori male and female current smokers and ex-smokers. The results showed that LDCT screening was cost-effective for all sex and ethnic groups, especially for Māori, females, and older age groups.<br /><br />The health benefits of LDCT screening were greater for Māori compared to non-Māori, and for women compared to men. Māori females had approximately double the health gains compared to non-Māori females, while Māori males had a 25% greater health gain compared to non-Māori males.<br /><br />The study concluded that a national LDCT screening program for lung cancer in New Zealand would be cost-effective and improve population health. It also emphasized the importance of addressing health inequalities and reducing the burden of lung cancer for the Māori population.<br /><br />Overall, the study suggests that LDCT screening for lung cancer could be a valuable intervention, particularly for high-risk populations. It highlights the need for a well-planned and monitored program to ensure its effectiveness and to reduce health inequalities. The findings support the consideration of implementing an LDCT screening program in New Zealand.

Asset Subtitle

Peter Sandiford

Meta Tag

Speaker Peter Sandiford

Topic Early Detection and Screening - Implementation

Keywords

New Zealand

lung cancer screening

ethnicity

Māori

health inequalities

cost-effectiveness

LDCT screening

health benefits

population health

high-risk populations