Impact of Lung Cancer Screening With Chest Scans Combined With Coaching on Smoking Cessation in Heavy Smokers

Summary

Lung cancer is common and serious, but when detected early, the chances of recovery are significantly better. Tobacco use is the leading cause. To help people break free from smoking, the Fribourg Cantonal Hospital (HFR), the Center for Tobacco Prevention (CIPRET), and the Fribourg Cancer League are joining forces in the STOP-LungCancer study (Smoking Termination Outcomes with Pulmonary Low Dose Computed Tomography for Lung Cancer Screening). What is the goal of this study? The investigators want to determine whether seeing and understanding images of the participants' own lungs helps participants quit smoking for good. Smoking cessation will be verified at 6 months using a breath test (measuring carbon monoxide), followed by a 2-year follow-up. How does participation work? The study is open to 116 residents of the canton of Fribourg aged 50 to 79 who are heavy smokers and motivated to quit. The program includes: 1. Personalized support: 4 smoking cessation coaching sessions organized by CIPRET. 2. Lung computed tomography (CT) scans: 3 exams spaced one year apart. This scan involves no needles or injections. The radiation dose is very low, about 0.6 millisieverts (mSv) per scan, and the associated risk is considered very low. 3. A review of the images with a doctor: During dedicated consultations, a thoracic radiologist reviews the participant's own computed tomography (CT) scans with the participant to explain the condition of the lungs and heart. What are the benefits? Participants receive both tailored support to quit smoking and close monitoring to detect any potential issues at a very early stage.