Optimizing Bronchopulmonary Cancer Screening
This study focuses on improving how we screen for lung cancer. It's happening in France and is testing a new way to deliver lung health checks for people who are at higher risk. The main goal is to see if regular CT scans (a type of detailed X-ray) of the chest can be used effectively to find lung cancer early in a group of people. Researchers want to make sure the screening process is well-organised and works smoothly from start to finish. This includes deciding who should be screened, performing the scans, having experts review the results, and ensuring people get the right follow-up care if something unusual is found. Catching lung cancer early often leads to better treatment options.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is a project in France looking at how to best check for lung cancer in certain people. It's often called 'screening', which means looking for a disease before symptoms even appear. The main tool they are using is a special type of X-ray called a CT scan, which gives a much more detailed picture of your lungs than an ordinary X-ray.
The researchers want to see if setting up a structured program for these CT scans can effectively find lung cancer early in people living in the Île-de-France region (around Paris). They are testing a step-by-step process: first, deciding who should be screened based on certain health factors, then arranging for these people to have a CT scan. Afterwards, experts will carefully review the scan images. If anything suspicious is found, the person would be referred to a team of specialists for further checks. The study also includes support for smokers who want to quit.
Catching lung cancer early is very important because it often means that treatments are more likely to work well. This study is designed to make sure that the screening process is organised, efficient, and leads to the right care for patients. It's about finding better ways to protect people's lung health.
Key takeaways
- The study aims to improve early lung cancer detection using CT scans.
- It's for people aged 50-74 with a specific smoking history.
- Participation involves a chest CT scan and follow-up.
- Support for quitting smoking is available for current smokers.
- Early detection of cancer can lead to better treatment options.
- You can withdraw from the study at any time.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, you would generally need to be between 50 and 74 years old and live in the Île-de-France region of France. The study is for people who currently smoke or have quit smoking within the last 10 years, and who have smoked a fairly significant amount over many years (for example, more than 10 cigarettes a day for over 30 years).
There are also some reasons why you might not be able to join. For instance, if you currently have cancer or had cancer in the last five years (unless it was a very specific minor skin or cervix cancer). You also wouldn't be able to join if you have symptoms that might suggest lung cancer, as you would need immediate tests instead of screening. If you're very unwell, severely overweight (over 140kg), unable to exercise a little (like climbing two flights of stairs), or have had a chest CT scan in the last year, you would also not be able to take part. Finally, you must be able to give your informed consent and follow the study's medical appointments.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you between 50 and 74 years old?
- Do you currently smoke or have you quit in the last 10 years?
- Do you live in the Île-de-France region of France?
- Do you NOT have active cancer or recent cancer (last 5 years, with some exceptions)?
- Have you NOT had a chest CT scan in the last year?
- Are you able to climb two flights of stairs without stopping?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, you would first have a meeting with a doctor who is trained in the study's screening rules. They would check if you meet the criteria to be included. If you’re eligible and agree to join, you would sign a consent form.
The main part of taking part involves having a special detailed X-ray called a chest CT scan. These scans are then reviewed by experts. If the scan shows anything that needs further investigation, you would be referred to a team of specialists. If you are a smoker, there would also be support available to help you stop smoking, should you wish to. The study involves regular follow-up to continue the screening program over time, but the specific number of visits and the total duration would be explained in full by the study team.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (8)
- Centre CTPS Bobigny BondyVerified postcodeBobigny, France· Not yet recruiting
- Centre Municipal de Santé Simone VeilVerified postcodeIssy-les-Moulineaux, France· Recruiting
- Centre Municipal de Santé Jacqueline Akoun-CornetVerified postcodeMalakoff, France· Not yet recruiting
- Centre Municipal de Santé Maurice TénineVerified postcodeMalakoff, France· Recruiting
- Centre de Santé Square de la MutualitéVerified postcodeParis, France· Recruiting
- Institut CurieVerified postcodeParis, France· Not yet recruiting
- Institut Mutualiste MontsourisVerified postcodeParis, France· Not yet recruiting
- Centre de Santé MGENVerified postcodeParis, France· Recruiting
Common questions
What is a CT scan?
A CT scan uses X-rays and computer technology to create detailed pictures of your body, in this case, your lungs, helping doctors see things more clearly than with a standard X-ray.
Why is this study only for people aged 50-74?
Studies often focus on specific age groups where the screening might be most beneficial or where a particular health risk is more common, to gather the most useful information.
Will I have to pay to be part of this study?
Clinical trials generally cover the costs of the tests and procedures directly related to the study. Your standard medical care costs would still apply as usual, but specific details would be confirmed by the study team.
What if they find something suspicious on my scan?
If something concerning is found, you would be referred to a team of specialists who would carry out further tests to find out exactly what it is and discuss the best next steps with you.
Is smoking cessation support mandatory?
If you are a smoker, support for quitting is offered. It's often encouraged as part of improving lung health, but the study team can clarify if it's a mandatory part of participation for current smokers.
How to find out more
Catherine DANIEL, MD
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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