Computed tomography screening for lung carcinoma in Japan

In Japan, lung carcinoma is the leading cause of cancer‐related deaths. Adenocarcinoma accounts for roughly half of all lung carcinomas. Earlier detection of lung carcinoma is expected to reduce mortality rates. Computed tomography (CT) provides higher contrast resolution and greater visualization of chest compartments that are difficult to view with chest radiography, such as the mediastinum. CT further permits the detection of minute peripheral nodules. At present, several institutions and research groups are evaluating the utility of low dose spiral CT for lung carcinoma screening.