Report urges action to optimise lung cancer diagnosis

To mark Lung Cancer Awareness Month, the Network has published a new report: Harnessing innovation to optimise lung cancer diagnosis for better equity, access and outcomes.

The diagnostic landscape for lung cancer is evolving, creating both opportunities and challenges. Recent advances in our knowledge of the molecular mechanisms underlying the disease, alongside the discovery of several biomarkers, are reshaping how it is understood. But gaps in access to diagnostic testing and innovations reduce diagnostic accuracy, delay detection and contribute to long-observed inequalities in survival and outcomes.

A comprehensive approach to diagnosis must be recognised as a critical component of lung cancer care, acknowledged in policy and delivered across health systems. Drawing on a review of the literature, as well as insights from Network members and 12 expert interviewees, the new report explores how the diagnostic process can be optimised in each phase of care.

The report recommends the following actions:

• Streamline all phases of the diagnostic process through a multi-pronged approach, to ensure efficient and equitable referral, treatment and care.
• Provide dedicated funding to address gaps in diagnosis research and implementation.
• Explore known and emerging diagnostic biomarkers and technologies, and investigate how they can be integrated effectively and equitably into practice.
• Implement innovative approaches to reduce diagnostic error and streamline diagnostic processes.
• Incorporate cost-effectiveness analyses and systematic consideration of health system resources and priorities when developing strategies to optimise diagnosis.
• Support effective collaboration and communication within and between multidisciplinary teams.
• Ensure guidance and recommendations for diagnosis reflect the latest evidence, to help improve care experiences and outcomes.
• Implement a variety of resources to help train and equip healthcare professionals so they can support optimal diagnosis.
• Address challenges around reimbursement and knowledge of diagnostic tests to reduce inequalities in access.

The value of efficient diagnostic processes is increasingly recognised in policy through global and regional resolutions and initiatives, as well as inclusion in national cancer control plans. But more work is needed to translate these commitments to local strategies and action, and to build and leverage existing infrastructure.

The Network hopes this report helps ensure that progress in the diagnosis, assessment and management of lung cancer translates into improvements in outcomes and survival.

Download the report