CN20 - Nurse’s role in coordinating new cancer screening initiatives: Experiences from an on-going risk-based lung cancer screening feasibility study, among Swedish women

Background

Lung cancer is the deadliest cancer form on Sweden. In recent years, the incidence of lung cancer among women has increased. International studies show reduced lung cancer mortality in high-risk populations after screening with low dose computed tomography (LDCT). In the Stockholm region, Sweden, a lung cancer screening program was developed, based on previous research, pilot testing and regional health economic analysis.

Methods

The purpose of this feasibility study is to test processes related to invitation, IT, logistics, resources, follow-up, imaging and smoking cessation. A random population-based sample of women (current smokers or recent quitters) aged 55–74 is invited to participate. The aim is to continue until 1000 women have undergone LDCT. Smoking cessation support is offered to all invited women.

Results

The inclusion started in September 2022, and the inclusion rate is currently 33%. The invitations are sent out via regular post, together with a link to a web-based survey. Once completed, women who meet the study's criteria are invited to LDCT. A specific protocol is developed to manage and follow-up different findings. LDCT imaging are managed, using an Artificial Intelligence protocol. The nurse’s role includes managing the study office, information and support to participants, scheduling and booking the LDCT invitations, coordinating the study team and involved health care units, managing quality insurance related the study processes including IT issues. The results of the study will be represented during 2025.

Conclusions

The involved processes seem to work really well. The study provides the basis for a future calculation of resources for a national risk-based screening program. Experiences so far indicate improved early detection rate of lung cancer. The role of nurse coordinator is fundamental for the success of this program.

Clinical trial identification

Not appliable

Editorial acknowledgement

None

Legal entity responsible for the study

Region Stockholm, Sweden.

Funding

The study is funded by the Regional Cancer Centre, Stockholm-Gotland, Sweden.

Disclosure

All authors have declared no conflicts of interest.