American Lung Association New Guidance On Lung Cancer Screening

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Main Category: Lung Cancer
Article Date: 23 Apr 2012 - 19:00 PDT

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In the United States, lung cancer kills more people than any other cancer and has a five year survival rate of only 15%. With that in mind, the American Lung Association released updated guidelines on screening for lung cancer, based on research from the National Cancer Institute National Lung Cancer Screening Trial (NLST).

The NLST has found in its recent work that low-dose computed tomography (CT) reduced lung cancer deaths by up to 20%, when compared to standard chest X-Rays. The NLST findings have already been put into effect to some extent, but The American Lung Association's Lung Cancer Screening Committee, chaired by Jonathan Samet, M.D., M.S., from the University of Southern California, highlights this information to both the public at large and the physicians treating them.

The Lung Association recommends that those between the ages of 55 and 74, with a history of smoking to a level of 30 pack years (that is a pack a day for 30 years), whether they have a history of lung cancer or not, should be screen with CT scans. There are unknown risks associated with the CT screening.

Edelman, M.D., chief medical officer of the American Lung Association reminds that :

"Never starting smoking and quitting smoking still remains the best way to prevent lung cancer .. Additionally, it is also important for people to have their homes tested for radon, as radon exposure can increase the risk of lung cancer."

The report also reminds medical centers to refer patients to specialist facilities that can better undertake and diagnose the CT scans, and also promote and advertise the option of lung cancer screening for long term smokers to patients.

The American Lung Association says it hopes to save lives with its new strategy and vows to continue to fight for clean air and reduced tobacco smoking.

Written by Rupert Shepherd
Copyright: Medical News Today
Not to be reproduced without permission of Medical News Today

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