Certified in Public Health (CPH) Practice Exam

What is the best recommended screening method for lung cancer?

1. X-ray examination annually

2. Blood test annually

3. No screening recommended

4. Sputum cytology every 3 years

The correct answer is: No screening recommended

The best recommended screening method for lung cancer among the options provided is that no screening is recommended for the general population, highlighting the importance of targeted screening protocols for specific high-risk groups rather than a blanket recommendation for everyone. Current guidelines suggest that lung cancer screening should only be conducted in certain populations, particularly individuals aged 55 to 80 years who have a significant history of smoking (e.g., a smoking history of at least 30 pack-years). For these individuals, low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) is the recommended screening method, not the options listed. The rationale behind the recommendation of no general screening is based on research indicating that conventional methods like annual chest X-rays or sputum cytology do not significantly reduce lung cancer mortality in the general population. Moreover, these methods can result in false positives, unnecessary anxiety, and invasive procedures without substantial benefits in terms of early detection. This approach underscores the importance of personalized healthcare, where screening is reserved for people at elevated risk instead of applying a standard screening strategy across all demographics.