Is an X-ray useful in detecting lung cancer?

Radiography (x-rays) is generally not recommended as a screening method for lung cancer. There are several reasons why x-rays are limited as an effective screening method.

X-rays are less sensitive for detecting small or early lung cancers. Tumors often have to grow to a significant size before they become visible on an x-ray. There is also a risk that x-rays may miss small or hard-to-see tumors, which can lead to false-negative results. X-rays can also lead to false-positive results, where noncancerous abnormalities are interpreted as suspicious, leading to unnecessary follow-up tests and anxiety.

CT scans, particularly low-dose CT scans (LDCT), are recommended as the preferred method for lung cancer screening in high-risk populations, such as long-term smokers and former smokers. Health organizations such as the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) and the American Cancer Society (ACS) recommend LDCT for lung cancer screening in high-risk individuals.

Although X-rays can be used for diagnostic purposes in symptomatic patients, they are not suitable for lung cancer screening. Low-dose CT scans are recommended for screening high-risk individuals because of their greater sensitivity and effectiveness in reducing lung cancer mortality.

Source: https://www.cancer.gov/types/lung/patient/lung-screening-pdq

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2023-12-11 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2025