Lung Cancer Screenings May Unexpectedly Reveal Heart Issues
A new study suggests that lung cancer screenings might offer an unexpected benefit: early detection of coronary artery disease. Researchers discovered that low-dose CT scans, routinely used for lung cancer screening, can also reveal calcification in the coronary arteries – a sign of potential heart problems.
The discovery emerged from a Canadian lung cancer screening program for individuals at high risk. Between 2017 and 2018, 1,486 participants underwent these low-dose CT scans. A staggering 83% (1,232 individuals) showed signs of coronary artery calcification. Nearly a third of these cases exhibited a high level of arteriosclerosis.
“Although lung cancer screening is primarily aimed at reducing lung cancer deaths, it also offers the opportunity to address the second most common cause of premature death in middle-aged adults by identifying coronary atherosclerosis and stratifying risk,” said Dr. Gary Small, a researcher from the University of Ottawa Heart Institute.
The study’s findings highlight the potential for these screenings to play a dual role in preventative healthcare. While focused on lung cancer detection, they may inadvertently provide early warning signs for heart disease.
Researchers emphasize the need for further investigation, particularly in determining how to manage cases where coronary artery calcification is unexpectedly discovered during lung cancer screenings. They advocate for continued emphasis on cardiovascular disease prevention and suggest integrating these efforts with lung cancer screening programs to promote overall health.
“If appropriate therapeutic measures are taken, lung CT findings could impact survival from two leading causes of death: lung cancer and coronary artery disease,” the researchers noted.
The study underscores the growing recognition of the interconnectedness of various health concerns and the potential for screenings to offer multiple benefits.
This research adds to the ongoing discussion about the potential of population-based screenings for lung cancer. While logistical challenges remain, particularly the limited availability of radiologists, advancements in artificial intelligence hold promise for making large-scale, affordable screenings a reality in the future.
– Do lung cancer screenings used to detect heart disease risk lead to over-diagnosis and unnecessary interventions? [[1](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24322569/)]
Dr. Small, this is fascinating. Lung cancer screenings, while life-saving in themselves, could also be flagging heart disease risks. But isn’t that putting a lot on the shoulders of radiologists? Do you think this could lead to over-diagnosis and unnecessary interventions, and what are your thoughts on the ethical implications of using a single screening for two very different conditions?
