Fundamental role of chest CT in lung cancer prevention
Lung cancer represents one of the greatest challenges of modern medicine. In the absence of an effective screening program, the disease exceeds the mortality rate for colon, breast and prostate cancer combined, with a five-year overall survival rate of less than 15%. Given this panorama, Spanish Society of Medical Radiology (SERAM) advocates for the implementation of a national screening program based on low-dose radiation computed tomography (CT) of the chest, A key tool for changing the course of this destructive pathology.
Affordable and effective solution
Low dose CT scan of the chest is presented as a simple, painless and affordable alternative that does not require intravenous contrast. According to Marcelo Sanchez, cardiothoracic radiologist at SERAMThis procedure is especially useful for active smokers and former smokers over 50 years of age with a significant smoking load. Due to its ability to detect tumors at early stages, TAC significantly increases survivalchanging the prognosis of a disease that is often diagnosed in late stages.
Low-dose chest CT significantly increases survival
In addition to its simplicity, low-dose CT uses significantly less radiation than traditional scans, minimizing the risks associated with it. These characteristics make it an important tool not only for the early detection of lung cancer, but also for the detection of other relevant pathologies in smokers and former smokers.such as pulmonary emphysema, coronary calcification and pulmonary interstitial changes.
European support
The European Parliament has already expressed support for this law. lung cancer screening using low-dose CT. From 2022, this institution encourages member countries to adopt programsnational programs combining primary prevention, such as smoking cessation, and secondary prevention through screening. Some European countries, such as Poland, Croatia and England, have already introduced national screening programs. while Spain is moving forward with pilot initiatives such as the CASSANDRA project.
Poland, Croatia and England have already implemented national screening programs.
A comprehensive approach to prevention and early detection not only improves lung cancer outcomes, but also helps combat other diseases common among smoking populations, optimizing resources and increasing public health benefits.
Role of radiologists
Radiologists play a central role in lung cancer screening, from early detection to subsequent treatment. Sanchez said his job includes evaluating CT scans, identifying suspicious lung nodules and coordinating with other specialists to evaluate incidental findings. This multidisciplinary approach provides comprehensive and personalized care, increasing the chances of treatment success.
This interdisciplinary approach provides comprehensive and individualized care.
In addition, the experience of radiologists is important when treating incidental pulmonary nodules discovered during radiological examinations performed for other reasons. These interventions enable early detection of tumors, expanding early detection beyond screening programs.
Problems
Although scientific evidence widely supports the benefits of lung cancer screening, implementation of national programs faces logistical and economic challenges. Initiatives such as the CASSANDRA project aim to assess the viability and resources needed to expand this strategy throughout Spain. It emphasizes the importance of combining screening with primary prevention measures, such as effective smoking cessation programs.
SERAM emphasizes that this approach not only saves lives, but also optimizes resources.
In an environment where smoking-related diseases place a significant burden on the healthcare system, lung cancer screening offers an opportunity to change the prevention and treatment of these pathologies. SERAM emphasizes that this approach not only saves lives, but also optimizes resources.early detection of other conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and coronary heart disease.
Promising future
SERAM’s offering reflects the commitment to innovation and excellence in medical diagnostics. This scientific society of more than 7,000 radiology physicians advocates for patient-centered medicine, where technology and interdisciplinary collaboration play an important role.
SERAM’s offering reflects the commitment to innovation and excellence in medical diagnostics.
The implementation of a national lung cancer screening program based on low-dose CT represents A unique opportunity to change the landscape of public health in Spain. In addition to reducing mortality, this initiative offers a comprehensive vision of prevention and diagnosis, marking an important milestone in the fight against one of the leading causes of death in the world.
Ultimately, early detection combined with primary prevention and timely treatment represents the best strategy to address lung cancer. Through its leadership and experience, SERAM continues to work to make this goal a reality, reminding us that in the fight against cancer, every achievement is a step towards hope and life.
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