Results from Lung Cancer Screening Outreach Utilizing a Mobile CT Scanner in an Urban Area

INTRODUCTION:Lung cancer screening (LCS) using low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) reduces lung cancer-specific and all-cause mortality in high-risk individuals, although there remain significant barriers to screening. We assessed the outreach of a mobile LCS program to increase screening accessibility and early detection of lung cancer. METHODS:We placed a mobile CT unit in a high-traffic area in New York City and offered free screening to all eligible patients. Characteristics of the mobile screening cohort were compared to our hospital-based screening cohort. RESULTS:Between December 9, 2019 and January 30, 2020, 216 patients underwent mobile LDCT screening. Compared to the hospital-based screening cohort, mobile screening participants were significantly more likely to be younger, uninsured, have lower smoking intensity, and less likely to meet 2013 USPSTF guidelines (but would meet 2021 USPSTF guidelines) and self-identify as White race and Hispanic ethnicity. Asian New Yorkers were substantially underrepresented in both hospital and mobile screening cohorts compared to their representation in NYC. Two patients were diagnosed with lung cancer and treated. Potentially clinically significant non-lung cancer findings were identified in 28.2%, most commonly moderate-severe coronary artery calcification and emphysema. CONCLUSION:Mobile LDCT screening is useful and effective in detecting lung cancer and other significant findings and may engage a distinct high-risk patient demographic. Disproportionately low screening rates among certain high-risk populations speak to the imperative of implementing strategies aimed at understanding health behaviors and access barriers for diverse populations. Effective care navigation services facilitating high-quality care for all patients are critical.