Low Dose CT Scan for Lung Cancer

This trial aims to determine if lung cancer can be inherited by screening close family members of lung cancer patients. Researchers will use low-dose CT scans (a type of imaging test) to detect early signs of lung cancer in these family members. The trial seeks first-degree relatives (such as parents, siblings, or children) of lung cancer patients who are between 40 and 80 years old, have smoked fewer than 20 pack years, and have no history of lung cancer themselves. Participants must be able to undergo a chest CT scan and meet other health criteria. As an unphased trial, this study offers participants the chance to contribute to groundbreaking research that could enhance early detection of lung cancer in families.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.

Studies have shown that low-dose CT (LDCT) scans are generally manageable for individuals undergoing lung cancer screening. Research from the National Lung Screening Trial found that among every 320 high-risk patients screened with LDCT over five years, one avoided dying from lung cancer. This finding suggests that LDCT can be a valuable tool for early cancer detection.

However, there is concern about radiation exposure during the scan. Although the radiation dose is lower than that of a regular CT scan, it remains present. It is important to weigh the benefits of early cancer detection against the risk of radiation exposure.

Researchers are excited about using low dose CT scans for lung cancer screening because this method potentially offers earlier detection of lung abnormalities in high-risk individuals, specifically first-degree relatives of lung cancer patients. Unlike standard screening options like chest X-rays or traditional CT scans, low dose CT scans use significantly less radiation while still providing detailed images of the lungs. This makes it a safer option for repeated screenings, which is crucial for early detection and timely intervention in individuals with a genetic predisposition to lung cancer.

Research has shown that low-dose CT scans can be very effective for lung cancer screening. Studies have found that early detection with these scans greatly improves survival chances. For instance, individuals diagnosed with stage 1A lung cancer have more than a 75% chance of living for five years, compared to less than a 5% chance when cancer is detected at a later stage. This trial will specifically use low-dose CT scans to screen first-degree relatives of lung cancer patients with a known driver mutation. Early findings suggest these scans can also detect lung cancer more frequently in people who have never smoked but have a family history of the disease.⁶⁷⁸⁹¹⁰