Given the proven benefits of screening, the European Commission recommends conducting pilot projects for lung cancer screening. In this context, and in line with the extensive knowledge gained from other countries, PULMONALE has developed a pilot project to be implemented in Portugal.
Lung cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality in Portugal, with most cases diagnosed at an advanced stage, when treatment options are more limited and survival is lower. Evidence from international screening programmes has shown that low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) can increase early-stage detection and reduce lung cancer mortality by more than 20%. Against this background, the PULMONALE pilot project aimed to define a feasible framework for the implementation of lung cancer screening in Portugal, aligned with European recommendations and informed by international experience.
MOAI supported PULMONALE in developing the pilot project, contributing to the literature review, consultancy and medical writing that underpinned the publication. The proposed model covers three key areas (recruitment, screening and referral for diagnosis) while integrating smoking cessation and psychological support, as well as referral pathways within the NHS. The project provides a structured roadmap for the progressive implementation of lung cancer screening in Portugal, with the potential to improve early diagnosis, save lives and generate both health and economic gains.
