2023 North America Conference on Lung Cancer (NACLC) - Posters and Abstracts-PP01.102 Sabrina Thomas NACLC Abstract

PP01.102 Sabrina Thomas NACLC Abstract

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A study conducted at an Appalachian VA Medical Center found that the prevalence of lung cancers was over two times higher than the National Lung Screening Trial (NLST). The study aimed to increase lung cancer screening accessibility for a vulnerable rural population by implementing a screening program for high-risk individuals.<br /><br />The researchers utilized electronic chart reminders to refer eligible patients during a visit to the medical center. Nurse coordinators were responsible for contacting and tracking screening participants. The population served by the medical center faced socio-economic disadvantages, such as lower income, education, unemployment, and rural living.<br /><br />The study analyzed data from 1375 participants who were screened in the first 16 months of the program. The Lung Imaging Reporting and Diagnostic System (Lung RADS) was used to categorize the findings. Categories three and four were considered positive findings, and demographic and disease criteria were collected for these patients.<br /><br />The results showed that out of the 1375 scans, 156 (11%) were categorized as Lung RADS category four, 242 (18%) as category three, and 977 (71%) as category one and two. Among the participants, 35 (2.5%) were diagnosed with lung cancer, which was significantly higher than the 1.1% reported in the NLST's first year. Of the diagnosed cases, 66% were detected in the early stages. Additionally, 43% of the participants had agent orange exposure and 26% showed signs of interstitial lung disease.<br /><br />The study concludes that the veteran population in the area had a significantly higher prevalence of lung cancer compared to the national trial. This finding justifies the use of low-dose helical computed tomography (LDCT) screening, especially in high-risk regions and populations, particularly veterans with additional exposure risks. The early detection of lung cancers should lead to a better overall survival rate and less morbidity. The study's program achieved short intervals between LDCT and diagnosis/treatment through a case management approach.

Keywords

lung cancers

prevalence

screening program

Lung RADS

scans

early stages

LDCT screening

veteran population

exposure risks

case management approach