The Lung Cancer Policy Network: reflections on 2023

2023 has been a significant year for the global lung cancer community. More and more, low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening for lung cancer is being used to facilitate the early detection of lung cancer across the globe. Governments are enshrining lung cancer prevention, screening and detection into their health services. England has committed to the full implementation of its targeted lung health check programme, while Australia has committed over AUS $500 million to the prevention and screening of lung cancer.

Vast swathes of research have been published to bolster the evidence base for the earlier detection of lung cancer. Notably, the twenty-year follow-up results from the International Early Lung Cancer Action Program (I-ELCAP) study have demonstrated that LDCT screening for lung cancer improves diagnosis rates and reduces mortality.

As a Network, we have expanded our membership and activities, while also broadening our remit to include the optimisation of care pathways and wider opportunities to enhance earlier detection. Additionally, we have worked to develop further tools that support the implementation of LDCT screening.

This year, the Network has focused on building an extensive evidence base that underpins key policy goals which look at addressing the global burden of lung cancer. We have published:

• A framework to support the practical implementation of LDCT lung cancer screening. This practical framework assesses how ready a health system is to integrate an LDCT screening programme. It is accompanied by a library of tools and resources can be used by policymakers, researchers, and healthcare professionals and managers.
• Six policy briefs that analyse the policy considerations needed for the implementation of LDCT screening around the world. These policy briefs provide key insights and considerations for the effective, equitable and sustainable implementation of lung cancer screening programmes.
• Second edition of the interactive map of lung cancer screening. An updated database of best-practice examples of LDCT screening is now available in six languages and includes over 80 new case studies, along with increased functionality and search filters.
• Five factsheets summarising the value of LDCT screening programmes. Designed with policymakers in mind, these factsheets explain why governments should invest in LDCT screening programmes for lung cancer as an urgent public health priority.
• Care pathways for lung cancer: building a foundation for optimal care report. This report explores the essential role care pathways play in delivering best-practice lung cancer care, and details how care pathways can respond to the upcoming shifts in lung cancer treatment.
• Increasing the earlier detection of lung cancer: a toolbox for change report. This report showcases best-practice approaches to earlier detection and provides clear recommendations that can be used by policymakers to design and implement a localised, comprehensive strategy for earlier detection.