Early detection of lung cancer - current status and implementation scenarios

The prognosis of conventionally diagnosed lung cancer patients is still rather poor. Two large, randomized trials using screening by low dose CT could demonstrate that early detection in persons with smoking as risk factor can improve this prognosis. Early detection of lung cancer can be achieved by structured screening programs using low dose CT for persons at increased risk, but in addition also by consequent management of incidental pulmonary nodules, which are seen on imaging for other reasons. Integral part of these programs should be prevention measures, especially a consequent, repeated, low-threshold offer of a service for smoking cessation. Programs for lung cancer screening for persons at increased risk are only beneficial for the screenees and cost-effective, if the various parts of the program are optimally integrated and coordinated and all necessary disciplines (especially respiratory medicine, radiology, pathology, thoracic surgery, radiotherapy) are included in a multidisciplinary manner. For Germany the certified lung cancer centres in structured cooperation with physicians in private practice (respiratory physicians, radiologists, general practitioners) would be a good option. It is essential that there is a good perception for the need of early detection of lung cancer in politics and the public and that the persons at risk are reached, contacted and motivated by various methods.