Screening rate and influential factors of lung cancer with low-dose computed tomography in Asian population: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background There are currently no studies synthesizing the screening rate and influential factors of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT)-screened lung cancer in Asian population. Methods A systematic review was conducted, using both English and Chinese language databases on March, 2019. The pooled screening rate and estimated odds ratios (ORs) of influential factors were analyzed using random effects models. Subgroup and meta-regression analyses were also employed to explore the heterogeneity. Results The pooled LDCT lung cancer screening rate was 1.12% (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.94%, 1.32%), and increased with age. Adenocarcinoma and stage I lung cancer had higher screening rates. Analysis of influential factors in the general population showed that female and elder age (≥50 years) were significantly influencing LDCT lung cancer screening rate (for female, OR = 1.32, 95% CI: 1.15–1.52; for adults ≥ 50 years, OR = 1.94, 95% CI: 1.52–2.49). Meta-regression analysis indicated that the heterogeneity maybe significantly correlated with the sample size, risk population and source of population. Conclusions Unlike European and American populations, female and adults > 50 years rather than smoking adults were positively associated with screening rate in Asian populations. It is important to further study the benefits of lung cancer screening with LDCT in Asian populations.