New York, NY- A recent study published in JAMA Internal Medicine reveals that only 18% of eligible Americans were up to date with their lung cancer screenings in 2022. The study, conducted by American Cancer Society researchers, analyzed data from the 2022 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, a nationwide survey of Americans.

Screening eligibility was determined based on the 2021 U.S. Preventive Services Task Force criteria, which recommend annual lung cancer screening for high-risk individuals. These individuals are defined as those with a pack-a-day cigarette habit for 20 years or more, who are current smokers or have quit within the past 15 years, and are between the ages of 50 and 80.

The study found that older adults were more likely to be compliant with their screenings, with 27.1% of respondents aged 70 to 79 in compliance compared to 6.7% of those aged 50 to 54. Rates of lung cancer screening were lower in the South, with states like Oklahoma averaging only 10.5% compliance, despite a high burden of lung cancer in the region.

State-level Medicaid expansion was associated with higher rates of lung cancer screening compliance. The study also revealed that individuals with comorbidities were more likely to be up to date on their screenings, emphasizing the importance of expanding access to healthcare and screening facilities to improve overall screening rates and reduce disparities.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, screening for lung cancer can prevent deaths as the disease is often easier to treat in its early stages. The study authors suggest that state-based initiatives to enhance access to healthcare and screening facilities could play a crucial role in improving screening rates and ultimately reducing disparities in lung cancer outcomes.