Demonstration program of population-based lung cancer screening in China: Rationale and study design

BACKGROUND: Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death and has become an enormous economic burden in China. Low-dose spiral computed tomography (LDCT) screening could reduce lung cancer mortality. The feasibility of conducting a population-based lung cancer screening with LDCT in China is uncertain. METHODS: In 2010, a demonstration program of lung cancer screening was initiated in China. High-risk individuals were enrolled in a cluster sampling design in different centers. Participants received baseline and annual screening with spiral CT and follow-up information was collected. The objective of this program is to evaluate the feasibility of conducting population-based LDCT lung cancer screening in the Chinese context. The rates of detection, early diagnosis and treatment are defined as indicators of program performance. The optimal management strategies for nodules are explored in the Chinese context based on experiences in other studies overseas. RESULTS: A demonstration program of ongoing prospective, multi-center, population-based lung cancer screening is being performed in China. CONCLUSIONS: This demonstration program will provide opportunities to explore the feasibility of LDCT lung cancer screening in the Chinese setting.