Screening

Although not as common as breast, prostate, and colorectal screening, lung cancer screening is increasing. Chest X-ray’s are very common and are used frequently for many different reasons. However, in previous studies, they have been shown not to have an effect on the risk of dying from cancer.

In August 2002, the National Cancer Institute, along with the American College of Radiology, developed the National Lung Screening Trial, which ran for 2 years. The purpose of the trial was to compare the effectiveness of low-computed tomography (CT screening) with chest X-rays. The trial found that the CT scans were more effective in preventing deaths from lung cancer than the chest X-rays.

In 2013, a recommendation was made that individuals at risk of developing lung cancer should have an annual CT scan. In 2021, the United States Preventive Services Task force provided the following recommendation:

The LDCT is one of the first national programs for lung cancer screening, and it has faced many challenges. Even prior to COVID-19, participations rates were less than 10%. There are several factors responsible for this low usage: low awareness of the program, especially for minority groups, and insurance coverage. Medicare covers individuals up to 77, while Medicaid coverage varies by state. Not all private insurance covers lung screening, although it is increasing. ⁸

For more information on the US National Lung Cancer Screening program, see The US national lung cancer screening programme - The Lung Cancer Policy Network

Updated: April 8, 2026