American Thoracic Society Documents An Official American Thoracic Society/European Respiratory Society Statement: The Role of the Pulmonologist in the Diagnosis and Management of Lung Cancer

on the Role of the Pulmonologist in the Management of Lung Background : Lung cancer is a common problem seen by pulmonolo- The American Thoracic (ATS) and Society (ERS) are professional organizations whose memberships are composed of large numbers of pulmonologists. Purpose : This document describes the key role of pulmonologists in the prevention, early diagnosis, and management of lung cancer. Methods : A committee of ATS and ERS leaders and their oncology groups discussed the activities of pulmonologists in relation to lung cancer in various settings and reviewed available literature on the topic. The content of this statement was approved by the board of directors of both the ATS and ERS. Results :Optimallungcancercarerequiresamultidisciplinaryteamof specialists who care for a significant number of patientson a regular basis.Pulmonologists are responsiblefor and involved withpatients from their initial diagnosis and staging through treatment and restaging. They are often involved with complications, palliative care, and end-of-life care, and thus have an important role in team leadership. Conclusions : Lung cancer is a disease with high mortality, profound effects on the quality of the lives of patients