Comprehensive Lung Health Screening and Its Utility for Early Risk and Disease Stratification

Summary

Respiratory illnesses are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, yet their prevalence in the general population remains poorly characterized. Computed tomography (CT) is the most effective diagnostic tool for identifying respiratory illnesses that cause changes to the lung parenchyma, such as pulmonary infections, fibrosis, and nodules. The diagnostic power of CT led the US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) to issue lung cancer screening guidelines. In this prospective, observational cohort study, the study team will recruit 10,000 individuals aged 21 to 85 years, stratified into three cohorts: Cohort 1 (Medical Indication Group), Cohort 2 (Guideline-Based Screening Group), and Cohort 3 (Asymptomatic Research Low-Dose CT \[LDCT\] Group). The primary analysis will estimate the baseline cross-sectional prevalence of LDCT-detectable pulmonary findings in Cohort 3. Secondary analyses will compare baseline LDCT findings across all three cohorts and evaluate baseline associations between risk/exposure variables and CT findings. Exploratory follow-up analyses will use clinical data from the electronic health record (EHR), as available, for up to 5 years after the baseline/index CT. This study has the potential to transform health screening strategies, reduce disease burden, and improve health outcomes across diverse populations.

Eligibility

Age range

21–85 years

Sex

All

Healthy volunteers

Yes