Consensus Recommendations for Lung Cancer Screening in Chile

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death worldwide, also in Chile, where the main risk factor is smoking. Early detection using low- dose computed tomography has been shown to reduce mortality from this cause, but there are still no formal screening recommendations in Chile. Aim: This initiative aimed to develop recommendations for lung cancer screening in Chile through an expert consensus process. Methods: A mixed approach was used in this study. A literature review was conducted to identify recommendations. A group of 18 Chilean experts was selected to form the Delphi panel. The RAND/UCLA method and evidence-based decision-making criteria were used to guide the evaluation process. Three rounds of voting and one synchronous meeting were conducted. Results: Following a literature review and expert evaluation, 25 recommendations relevant to lung cancer screening in Chile were selected. These recommendations cover the selection of the target population, the frequency and duration of the program, and the implementation and characteristics of the programs and the health institutions that would host them. Conclusions: Experts expressed concerns about the feasibility and acceptability of implementing screening programs in the local context, noting possible barriers, such as lack of awareness and costs. Local evidence needs to be generated to address the regional particularities and ensure the feasibility and effectiveness of lung cancer screening programs in Chile.