Roadblocks to Lung Cancer Screening: Why Early Detection Is Still Falling Short
Lung cancer screening has the potential to save lives and reduce healthcare costs, yet far too few eligible individuals are taking advantage of this critical service. Research indicates lung cancer screening has saved 80,000 years of life and produced $40 million in savings. However, it’s estimated that fully utilizing screening could save an additional 500,000 years of life and generate $500 million in savings.
So, why are only 4.5% of the 8 million Americans who are considered high-risk for lung cancer actually getting screened? One major hurdle is a lack of awareness about screening guidelines and eligibility. Studies show that up to one-third of healthcare providers may not fully understand or communicate lung cancer screening protocols, meaning that many high-risk patients aren’t being encouraged to get tested. Concerns about exposure to repeated low-dose CT scans and the potential for false positives further contribute to the hesitancy surrounding screening. Additionally, because lung cancer often has no early symptoms, many people don’t realize they’re at risk until it’s too late.
On the healthcare side, some hospitals and clinics are not equipped with the necessary infrastructure to manage incidental findings or coordinate patient care following initial screenings. When suspicious lung nodules are discovered, there can be significant delays before a patient receives the appropriate follow-up care. In some cases, small lung lesions, especially those located in the outer periphery of the lung, are difficult and expensive to biopsy, making it hard to confirm a diagnosis early.
Fortunately, advances in technology are addressing these obstacles. Robotic-assisted bronchoscopy platforms like the Galaxy System, with its integrated navigation and TiLT+ ™ technology, are enabling physicians to biopsy a higher percentage of lesions, including those in previously hard-to-reach areas. Designed to keep lesions in sight, the Galaxy System integrates imaging to provide a view of the lesion in multiple planes. Never before have clinicians been more confident that their tools are in the lesion.
By addressing these roadblocks and ensuring that both patients and healthcare providers are informed and equipped, we can significantly reduce the financial toll of lung cancer on the healthcare system and, most importantly, increase screening rates and save lives.