New report highlights how global data can accelerate lung cancer screening

The Lung Cancer Policy Network has launched a new report highlighting how insights from global data can help drive the implementation of effective and equitable screening programmes for lung cancer worldwide.

Low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening is proven to detect lung cancer earlier, when people with the disease have better treatment outcomes and a higher chance of surviving. Despite decades of robust evidence supporting this, national screening programmes across the globe remain limited in number and reach. Closing the gap: the role of global data in advancing lung cancer screening confronts this persistent disconnect between evidence and implementation, and outlines how we can utilise what we already know to inform programme design and ultimately accelerate progress with screening.

Drawing on data from the Network’s interactive map of lung cancer screening, the report identifies ten key areas for advancing lung cancer screening globally, providing a practical and evidence-based perspective to guide policymakers and health system leaders in:

1. incorporating lung cancer into national cancer control plans to formalise screening commitments
2. utilising population-based cancer registries to inform the design of programmes
3. applying risk prediction models to inform screening eligibility
4. exploring the potential role of biomarkers in recruiting screening participants
5. selecting appropriate healthcare professionals to refer people to screening
6. improving screening recruitment through targeted outreach strategies
7. selecting an appropriate screening model
8. highlighting the role of shared decision-making
9. incorporating smoking cessation services into screening
10. using computer-aided detection technologies.

Without decisive action, the toll of lung cancer will escalate dramatically. The past decade has laid a strong foundation of evidence – but bold implementation, expansion, optimisation and innovation must come next. And with the right investment, infrastructure and commitment, countries can build screening programmes for lung cancer that are data-driven, person-centred and capable of transforming outcomes at scale.

Download the report