Lung Cancer Policy Network

We were pleased to contribute to the Government Gazette for a special edition on cancer; the issue included several articles examining the current state of lung cancer screening across Europe and the steps being taken to implement it more widely. Currently, the implementation of lung cancer screening is varied across the region. Some countries, such as Croatia, have already established formal screening programmes, while others require further commitment and action to ensure broader access across the continent. In this article, we discuss the progress made so far, how barriers have been overcome in some areas and how the Network is supporting the European community in rolling out screening programmes more widely. Read the Network’s recommendations for Central and Eastern Europe: https://lnkd.in/eU3p6yep Read the Network’s full article in the Government Gazette: https://lnkd.in/e-ENWRZQ

In 2015, lung cancer screening in South Korea took a significant step forward when a multi-society collective developed comprehensive guidelines for lung cancer screening. Following the publication of these guidelines, the South Korean government went on to fund the Korean Lung Cancer Screening Project (K-LUCAS), which ran in 2017 and 2018 to evaluate the feasibility of implementing a national screening programme for lung cancer. Building on the success of this study, the country formally launched the National Lung Cancer Screening Program (NLCSP) in 2019. The NLCSP is integrated into the country's broader screening programme, which covers cancers such as breast, liver and stomach. Read our latest case study to learn more about the development of a national screening programme for lung cancer in South Korea and the impact it has had in the country: https://lnkd.in/eStKF77p

We’re updating our interactive map of lung cancer screening, which collates global data on low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening. The map allows users to explore clinical trials, implementation studies and organised programmes, providing valuable insights into the state of lung cancer screening worldwide. We are currently seeking submissions for studies, pilots and programmes related to lung cancer screening, with a special focus on regions where data is currently limited, including Africa, the Middle East, South America and Asia-Pacific. If you're involved in any relevant projects, we would love to feature your work! Help us broaden the scope of this important resource and advance global efforts on lung cancer screening. Submit your data here: https://lnkd.in/em3nMyxn

2024 was a pivotal year for lung cancer policy. More governments made formal commitments to lung cancer screening, and other locations have launched pilot programmes to explore the feasibility of national screening initiatives. While there’s still much work to be done in eliminating lung cancer as a leading cause of death, progress is being made – and the Network has been instrumental in driving this change. We’re proud to share our new report, ‘2024 in Review: from evidence to action’, which highlights the breadth of our activities and the critical role of collaboration across our global Network. Read the full report here: https://lnkd.in/ezd723mA

If you’re attending the European Lung Cancer Congress (ELCC) 2025, join us for a panel discussion and networking event on Thursday 27 March. Starting at 18:30, we’ll be joined by a panel of expert speakers who will share their insights on how we can successfully embed lung cancer screening into care pathways across Europe. The event will also provide an opportunity to network with others, share ideas and collaborate. With nations across the continent at different stages of screening implementation – and the European Union now recommending screening for high-risk groups – there is a real opportunity to optimise the implementation of screening across Europe and make access more equitable. Register now to join the event: https://lnkd.in/e32pfVZq?

We are delighted to welcome the SOLACE Project as a member of the Lung Cancer Policy Network! SOLACE is an EU4Health project dedicated to advancing screening implementation in Europe, focusing particularly on addressing inequalities by bringing together experts from across the region. The Network is pleased to have SOLACE represented in our global membership to foster collaboration on screening implementation in Europe and ensure lessons from the region are shared globally to support others.  https://lnkd.in/eNcRTEnj

Low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) programmes are the most effective method for detecting lung cancer earlier, but strategies for managing incidental pulmonary nodule (IPN) can be adopted whether or not a screening programme is already in place. Effective IPN management offers a crucial alternative route to diagnosing the disease in people who are not eligible for screening and at a stage when more effective treatment options are often available. But to fully realise this opportunity, the detection, tracking and follow-up of IPNs needs to be optimised. In our recent report, we have outlined how this can be achieved, setting out clear recommendations for each of the three key stages of IPN management. #DetectEarlySaveLives Read the report here: https://lnkd.in/eD3RbjPN

The Lung Ambition Alliance Middle East and Africa Chapter has applied our implementation framework to develop region-specific recommendations for establishing screening programmes for lung cancer. The framework helped align the recommendations with global best practices while addressing local needs, making the recommendations feasible and tailored as well as effective in reducing the high costs and number of deaths associated with lung cancer in the region. Lung cancer is a growing priority in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region with incidence, prevalence and mortality rising rapidly. Currently, the lack of national screening programmes in many countries significantly hinders early detection and timely treatment, highlighting the urgent need to develop and strengthen such initiatives. We sat down with the group of experts to discuss the need for screening across the diverse countries that make up the region, and the process of using the framework to ensure their assessment of implementation requirements was comprehensive. Find out more: https://lnkd.in/eB6UcPYh

2024 was a milestone year: we built on the evidence we’ve gathered since 2021 to drive significant policy change in lung cancer care. Our efforts to engage policymakers, raise awareness and advocate for better lung cancer outcomes have taken many forms, from impactful webinars and publications to presentations at global conferences. We’re thrilled to share our new report, ‘2024 in review: from evidence to action’, which highlights the latest activities, achievements and impact of the Lung Cancer Policy Network. With over 80 members from 34 countries, the Network continues to expand its reach and influence, shaping policy through evidence-based, consensus-driven recommendations. As we look ahead, we’re more committed than ever to collaborating to drive policy action, as part of the global lung cancer community. Let’s work together to ensure that lung cancer remains a health priority in 2025 and beyond. Read the full report here: https://lnkd.in/ezd723mA

Today marks World Cancer Day and we’re joining our global community under the umbrella of this year’s theme, ‘united by unique’, to call for an increased focus on person-centred care. Everyone with lung cancer must be able to access to comprehensive and high-quality care, which includes supportive care to help relieve the impact of the disease and its treatment on people’s daily lives. As a Network, we are proud to work with our global multidisciplinary membership, including patient representatives, to ensure their perspectives inform our recommendations and that our work can have a positive impact on people with lung cancer and their carers. Find out more about the work we are doing to drive lung cancer policy forward: https://lnkd.in/eX5Ef29v