Newspaper coverage of LDCT lung cancer screening overall positive

U.S. newspaper coverage of low-dose CT lung cancer screening between 2010 and 2022 was overall positive -- but more thorough coverage is needed, according to a study published March 15 in the American Journal of Roentgenology.

A team led by Zachary Zippi of Florida International University College of Medicine conducted a review of 859 newspaper articles published during that time period and found that sentiment regarding lung cancer screening was positive in 76% of articles, neutral in 21%, and negative in 3%. The team also found the following in the articles:

• 52% mentioned lung cancer screening enrollment criteria.
• 28% mentioned smoking cessation.
• 27% mentioned the need for annual LDCT.
• 33% mentioned cost or insurance coverage for lung cancer screening.
• 64% mentioned at least one benefit of lung cancer screening.
• 9% interviewed or mentioned a radiologist.

Although the study findings were positive overall, there's room for more thorough media coverage about lung cancer screening, the group wrote.

"The findings highlight areas for potential improvement of LCS media coverage; radiologists have an opportunity to take a more active role in this coverage," the team concluded.