Head, Neck and Lung Cancer Screening: Study Shows Coupling Scans Could Improve Early Detection, Survival

A new study released by the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute shows that adding head and neck cancer screenings to recommended lung cancer screenings may improve early detection and survival.

The study, published in the journal of Cancer, analyzed the records of 3,587 current and former smokers aged 50 and older, to determine if they had an increased risk of developing head and neck cancer. Among the participants, the rate of those expected to develop head and neck cancer was 71.4 cases per 100,000 people.

The results provide rationale for a national clinical trial to assess the effectiveness of coupling head and neck screenings to lung screening programs. The team from UPCI is expected to design a national trial that would further investigate the combined screenings affect on mortality rates.

You can read more about the study here.

This is not intended as medical advice to replace the expertise and judgment of your health care team. It is intended to help you and your family make informed decisions, together with your doctor.