AMA Resolution Supports Expanded Low-Dose CT Screening to Detect Lung Cancer and Heart Risk

A new resolution backed by the American College of Radiology is urging the American Medical Association to promote broader use of low-dose CT scans for lung cancer screening and coronary calcium scoring. The policy encourages public awareness campaigns, physician education, and improved access across healthcare settings.

"This resolution is very important," said ACR CEO Dana Smetherman, MD, MBA, MPH, in a video interview. "We’ve had lots of efforts to raise awareness of lung cancer screening, and we hope to launch an international screening day to bring more patients in."

Despite being the leading cause of cancer death in the U.S., fewer than 6% of eligible patients receive low-dose CT scans. The scans use less radiation than standard CT and can detect lung nodules early. The National Lung Screening Trial found this screening can reduce mortality by up to 20%.

To support the resolution, ACR is expanding its early lung cancer registry to include incidental findings, nodules discovered during routine CT scans.

“A lot of nodules are found incidentally,” said Smetherman. “This grant lets us capture more of those cases and improve our tracking.”

Hospitals nationwide are increasingly offering free or low-cost screenings to reach high-risk groups and encourage preventive care. The AMA resolution aims to unify these efforts at a national level.