NLST LogoWelcome to the National Lung Screening Trial at the University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus

What is NLST?

NLST, the National Lung Screening Trial, is a research study sponsored by the National Cancer Institute for men and women at risk for lung cancer. NLST is a lung cancer screening trial. Screening means testing people to detect a disease before it causes symptoms.

The purpose of NLST is to compare two ways of detecting lung cancer: standard chest x-ray and spiral computed tomography (CT) scan. Both chest x-rays and spiral CT scans are used in an effort to find lung cancer early. So far, neither chest x-rays nor spiral CT scans have been shown to reduce a person's chance of dying from lung cancer. This study aims to show which test is better at reducing deaths from this disease.

Lung cancer research is a high priority for the National Cancer Institute. NCI is supporting NLST at more than 30 locations throughout the United States. NLST is a vital part of the effort to reduce the toll of lung cancer.

NLST offered participants:

  • The possibility of detecting a small lung cancer that may still be curable
  • The chance to contribute to medical research and to help others and future generations
  • Referrals to smoking cessation resources if the participant wanted to quit

 

If you joined this study:

  • You talked with NLST staff to discuss the study, and they determined your eligibility.
  • You read and signed a consent form that explains NLST in detail.
  • You were assigned by chance (randomized) to have either chest X-rays or spiral CT scans.
  • You will visit the NLST site to have the same test each year for three years.
  • Expert radiologists will review your X-ray or spiral CT scan.
  • Your test results will be mailed to you and your doctor, who will determine if follow-up tests are needed.
  • Periodically, for several years, the study staff will contact you by phone or by mail to update information about your health.
  • Some NLST centers may ask to collect your blood, urine, or sputum (phlegm) for future lung cancer studies.

If you would like more information about NLST, please contact us:

NLST Telephone Numbers:                                          

Denver Metro Area - (303) 724-6578
Toll-Free Long Distance - 1 (866) 469-6578

Mailing Address:

National Lung Screening Trial (NLST)
Mail Stop F526
P. O. Box 6508
Aurora, Colorado 80045