Shall We Screen Lung Cancer With Low-Dose Computed Tomography? Cost-Effectiveness in Hungary

•Over the years, Hungary has traditionally been reported among the highest incidence and mortality rates of lung cancer in Europe. There are data on the effectiveness of screening: 2 pilot clinical sites have initiated screening with low-dose computed tomography. Cost-effectiveness has not been assessed yet. Research from other countries indicates that cost-effectiveness largely varies by target population for screening.•To the best of our knowledge, this is the first health-economic model to analyze the cost-effectiveness of screening in a Central-Eastern European context. Rather than restricting screening to heavy smokers, the analysis investigates cost-effectiveness for the general population as well.•Low-dose computed tomography in Hungary proves to be cost-effective in the high-risk population segments, especially cohorts with a current smoker population. Cost-effectiveness depends both on the target population and the frequency of screening: selecting the appropriate risk group and setting up adequate logistics are paramount. The introduction of screening programs must be treated with a mid- to long-term focus given that initial budget impact would be high.