Lung Cancer Screening: Practical Aspects for Primary Care

Lung cancer is the second most diagnosed cancer and remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. The high mortality is largely the consequence of late diagnosis; lung cancer is typically asymptomatic in early stages when a surgical cure is most likely. As a result, there has been great interest in and research on early detection of lung cancer through screening.

There is evidence for reduced disease-specific mortality through screening for lung cancer. However, creating an integrated, systematic approach to lung cancer screening remains a challenge for providers. A successful lung cancer screening program weighs the benefits and harms of screening, clearly defines the target population and the screening process, and does not exclude eligible patient populations based on race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status, In addition it should promote shared decision-making and address risk reduction.

Lung Cancer Screening: Essentials for Primary Care provides a comprehensive and pragmatic guide to screening for lung cancer in real world clinical practice. The first two chapters summarize the epidemiology, risk factors and disparities in lung cancer, and provide the evidence base for screening for lung cancer. The disparities in lung cancer among different groups within the US population are well known. This text highlights how health disparities in lung cancer affect screening and have led to modification of lung cancer screening guidelines. Subsequent chapters provide a guide to implementing a successful lung cancer screening program and address the barriers that arise during implementation. The book concludes with real-world solutions to overcoming barriers in lung cancer screening.

This pocket guide is an essential read and bookshelf reference for providers who do not have the specialized knowledge of screening for lung cancer. It also appeals to pulmonologists, fellows in Pulmonary Medicine, chest radiologists, and advanced practice providers with an interest in setting up lung cancer screening in any clinical practice.