To investigate the association of sociodemographic and socioeconomic factors with participation in a Swedish risk-based lung cancer screening pilot program.
Approach:
Pilot Program Design: The pilot program invited women aged 55 to 74 with a smoking history to participate in a questionnaire on smoking habits, aiming to assess feasibility for lung cancer detection.
Eligibility Criteria: Inclusion criteria were based on NELSON criteria for LDCT screening, focusing on heavy smokers. Exclusion criteria included long-term cessation and ongoing lung cancer treatment.
Data Collection: Data were collected from the Regional Health Control system and Statistics Sweden’s LISA database, including sociodemographic and socioeconomic variables.
Outcome Measures: The study examined participation in three stages: questionnaire participation, LDCT eligibility, and LDCT attendance.
Key Findings:
Lung cancer incidence and mortality disparities exist, particularly affecting socioeconomically disadvantaged groups.
Targeted screening using LDCT has been shown to reduce lung cancer mortality.
Socioeconomically disadvantaged populations are less likely to participate in screening programs despite higher risk.
Interpretation:
The study assesses the feasibility of lung cancer screening programs aimed at high-risk populations, particularly those with lower socioeconomic status.
Limitations:
The study does not include follow-up reminders for participants.
No formal shared decision-making or additional patient education was provided.
Conclusion:
Understanding socioeconomic factors is crucial for improving participation in lung cancer screening.
