Today, Germany is launching a new lung cancer screening program for individuals at increased risk. The goal is to detect tumors early and significantly improve survival chances. Back in June 2025, the Federal Joint Committee (G-BA) paved the way for the introduction of this new insurance-covered service. The decision marks an important milestone in preventive medicine and is largely based on scientific evidence, including studies conducted by the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), such as the HANSE study.
In connection with the program launch, Prof. Dr. Hans-Ulrich Kauczor, DZL board member, was interviewed by the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung (FAZ). In the interview, the radiologist explains who benefits from the screening, how the examination is conducted, and what opportunities and risks are involved.
The new program is aimed at individuals aged 50 to 75 with a relevant smoking history. Participation requires a referral from a primary care physician. The examination is performed using low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) to minimize radiation exposure. Depending on the findings, follow-up steps may include regular control examinations or referral to specialized lung cancer centers for further assessment.
International studies, as well as the DZL-initiated HANSE study, have shown that CT-based screening can detect lung cancer at an earlier stage. The results also provide important insights on how to more precisely identify high-risk groups in the future. Current data suggest that extended risk models could detect more cases than the criteria currently in use. At the same time, discussions are ongoing about how the screening program can become more precise, efficient, and gender-sensitive.
As Prof. Kauczor emphasizes in the interview, lung cancer is often difficult to detect early and is frequently diagnosed at advanced stages. However, studies show that structured early detection can reduce mortality. He also points out challenges at the start of the program, including gaps in information, organizational requirements, and necessary qualifications for physicians. A gradual rollout of the program is therefore expected.
Regardless of screening, the most effective protection against lung cancer remains not smoking. Ideally, the screening program should be combined with smoking cessation support.
Prof. Dr. Hans-Ulrich Kauczor is Medical Director of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology at Heidelberg University Hospital, Director of the DZL site TLRC (Translational Lung Research Center Heidelberg), and a member of the DZL Board.
The full interview with Prof. Kauczor is available on FAZ.NET (paywall):
Krebs-Früherkennung für Raucher: Für wen sich das neue Screening besonders lohnt | FAZ
