Learn about lung cancer screening

Lung cancer has the highest incidence rate and mortality rate in the world. The latest data on malignant tumors in China, published by the National Cancer Center, shows that lung cancer remains the most common malignant tumor in the country. In 2016, there were approximately 828,100 new cases of lung cancer in China, resulting in 657,000 deaths.

 

Lung cancer has remained a major health concern in China with high incidence and mortality rates, which not only causes harm to patients' physical health, but also brings economic burden and psychological pressure to patients and their families.

 

 

There are many causes of lung cancer, among which smoking is considered a major one. Smoking can cause harmful substances to accumulate in the lungs. Long-term smokers are 15-30 times more likely to develop lung cancer than non-smokers. However, some people may develop lung cancer even if they do not smoke.

 

Other risk factors that contribute to the high incidence of lung cancer include exposure to radiation, air pollution, family or a personal history of chronic lung disease, chemical exposure and genetics.

 

 

Recent studies have shown that using low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) for lung cancer screening can greatly improve the chances of early detection and treatment of lung cancer.

 

Lung cancer in its early stages has no obvious symptoms, making it difficult to detect. For high-risk groups such as those over 50 years old, smokers or those who have quit smoking for no more than 15 years, those with a history of chronic lung disease or a family history of lung cancer, it is recommended to undergo LDCT lung screening once a year. Individuals with negative initial screening results should undergo an annual follow-up examination to detect and treat potential lung cancer as early as possible.

 

The purpose of early screening for lung cancer is to detect lung cancer and its precursor lesions as soon as possible, thereby improving the cure and survival rates. In many countries, early lung cancer screening has become a routine medical examination for people at risk of developing the disease. Research has shown that if lung cancer is diagnosed early, the chances of recovery will be much higher.

 

There are various imaging examination methods used to detect lung cancer, such as X-rays, computed tomography (CT), chest X-rays, and positron emission computed tomography (PET-CT). Among them, LDCT is the most commonly used screening method, which can detect millimeter-sized pulmonary nodules. These nodules may be precursor lesions of early lung cancer or those that have not yet progressed to cancer, such as atypical adenomatous hyperplasia.

Low sensitivity of X-ray fluoroscopy or imaging makes it difficult to detect smaller lesions. PET-CT is not suitable for screening due to its high radiation and high cost.

The process of lung cancer screening is not complex, but specific methods and standards need to be followed. Lung cancer screening should be conducted by professional doctors or medical institutions.

 

 

It should be pointed out that lung cancer screening also has certain limitations and risks, and is not applicable to all populations. For example, LDCT examination can generate radiation and is not suitable for women of child-bearing age. This examination may detect many harmless pulmonary nodules or lesions. Therefore, before conducting lung cancer screening, it is necessary to consider various factors such as individual status, family history, genetic status, and make decisions under the guidance of a doctor.

 

Early screening for lung cancer has become an effective method that can help people detect and treat lung cancer early. 

 

If you fall into high-risk groups of long-term smoking, with a family history of lung cancer, or a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, it is recommended you undergo regular screening. Early detection and treatment are fundamental to improve the survival and cure rates of lung cancer patients.