Lung cancer screening rates remain low due to structural barriers

Research indicates that fewer than 1 in 5 eligible adults in the United States are up to date on lung cancer screening. According to an American Cancer Society study published in JAMA, significant structural barriers—including costs, insurance coverage, and approval requirements—prevent eligible individuals from accessing necessary screenings.

A study evaluating the mPATH-Lung digital outreach program found that while automated interventions can increase screening rates, they often fail to reach marginalized populations. In a North Carolina-based study, only 11% of invited individuals engaged with the digital portal. Disparities were noted among older adults, rural residents, and those with lower socioeconomic status. Specifically, engagement rates were lower among Black and Hispanic participants compared to white participants, and individuals with commercial insurance showed higher engagement than those in low-income or rural areas.

Experts suggest that technology alone may exacerbate health inequities. They advocate for hybrid approaches that combine automated digital tools with human support, community partnerships, and offline channels to ensure more equitable access to preventative care.