8 September 2022

The Lung Cancer Policy Network is proud to announce the launch the interactive map of lung cancer screening implementation.

The map is the first global database that collates ongoing and completed implementation research for low-dose computed tomography (LCDT) screening. The aim of the interactive map is to facilitate the sharing of best practice and to guide policy development around using LCDT screening to detect lung cancer.

Users have access to two maps that can be used to explore data on LDCT lung cancer screening:

  • a pin map providing an overview of ongoing and completed clinical trials, implementation studies and national or regional LDCT screening programmes globally
  • a heat map displaying the policy context for lung cancer and LDCT screening in each country.

Early detection of lung cancer by LDCT screening of healthy, high-risk people can help save lives and reduce the considerable burden of lung cancer on societies. Network member Professor Dorothy Keefe, CEO of Cancer Australia, said:

The introduction of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) with computer-assisted detection has meant that lung cancer screening has become more effective in terms of saving lives by earlier diagnosis, and at the same time less expensive, making the cost-effectiveness of a programme more likely.

The map is a comprehensive resource for policymakers, researchers and lung cancer advocates to support early detection via screening. We anticipate it being used to support policy discussions on the evidence-base for screening implementation. It can also be used to build on lessons learnt by providing an overview of key implementation activity.

Developed in close consultation with our Network members, this map has been populated from a global review of both peer-reviewed and grey literature, as well as insights gathered from study and programme leads. Network member Professor David Baldwin of the University of Nottingham, UK, said:

The Network’s interactive map enables us to easily understand which countries have committed to implementing LDCT screening, as well as how implementation has been designed to optimise equitable access. It provides information about which high-risk populations are being targeted in screening research, and what proportion of patients were diagnosed with early-stage lung cancer; all vital to help us continue to refine implementation activity and inform best practice.

As the map is a living resource, the scope of its inclusion criteria will be expanded in future editions.

View the map

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