NLST

NLST or National Lung Screening Trial was a large-scale, randomized, controlled trial that aimed to determine whether screening with low-dose helical computed tomography (CT) could reduce mortality from lung cancer compared to standard chest X-ray. The trial was conducted by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and the American College of Radiology Imaging Network (ACRIN).

Background

The NLST was initiated in response to the high mortality rate associated with lung cancer, which is often diagnosed at a late stage. The trial aimed to determine if early detection through low-dose CT scans could improve survival rates.

Methodology

The NLST enrolled 53,454 participants at 33 sites across the United States. Participants were aged 55 to 74 years and had a history of heavy smoking. They were randomly assigned to receive three annual screenings with either low-dose helical CT or standard chest X-ray.

Findings

The NLST found that participants who received low-dose helical CT scans had a 20% lower risk of dying from lung cancer than those who received standard chest X-rays. This finding led to a change in screening recommendations for high-risk individuals.

Impact

The results of the NLST have had a significant impact on lung cancer screening guidelines. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) now recommends annual screening for lung cancer with low-dose CT in adults aged 55 to 80 years who have a 30 pack-year smoking history and currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years.

See Also

• Lung Cancer
• Computed Tomography
• National Cancer Institute
• American College of Radiology Imaging Network
• U.S. Preventive Services Task Force

NLST Resources
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