Lung Cancer Screening in Germany: A Leap Toward Early Detection

Germany is internationally renowned for its engineering precision and technological leadership—and its healthcare system is no exception. Among the most advanced medical infrastructures in the world, Germany continues to lead in early detection and cancer prevention initiatives.

In particular, the 2024 launch of Germany’s National Lung Cancer Screening Program exemplifies the country’s commitment to combining clinical rigor with practical implementation. Built on a foundation of evidence-based diagnostics, structured clinical trials, and partnerships between health institutions and innovation-driven companies, this program marks a transition from isolated trials to a nationwide preventive health strategy.

In July 2024, Germany took a major step forward by launching a national lung cancer screening program (Lungenkrebsvorsorge Programm).


 

National Lung Cancer Screening Program Launched in 2024

The program targets high-risk individuals using Low-Dose Computed Tomography (LDCT), a highly effective imaging modality for detecting lung cancer in its early, asymptomatic stages. LDCT has proven to outperform traditional chest X-rays in identifying small tumors. By integrating LDCT into a nationwide initiative, Germany not only adheres to the latest global standards in cancer prevention but also reinforces its healthcare system’s precision-focused reputation.

Coreline Soft and the HANSE Study: Supporting Innovation in Screening

Coreline Soft proudly contributed to the HANSE study (Holistic German Lung Cancer Screening Trial), led by Hannover Medical School (MHH). The study provides the clinical foundation for the national program, focusing on evaluating the effectiveness of LDCT in detecting early-stage lung cancer in high-risk groups, such as long-term and former smokers.

Through this collaboration, Coreline Soft supported the development of an efficient and scalable AI-based screening workflow. The goal was to streamline screening procedures, improve diagnostic accuracy, and minimize patient burden while maintaining high clinical standards.

Developing a Robust Workflow: Quality, Safety, and Efficiency

Over the past two years, Coreline Soft and MHH have worked closely to establish a workflow that meets rigorous requirements for image interpretation quality, data security, and operational efficiency.

The integration of AVIEW LCS Plus enabled simultaneous evaluation of lung cancer and comorbid conditions such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and Coronary Artery Calcification (CAC). AVIEW’s intuitive interface and clinically validated algorithms support radiologists in delivering high-accuracy readings in a user-friendly environment that aligns with data protection requirements.

Why Lung Cancer Screening Matters

Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related death both in Germany and globally. The key to reducing mortality is early detection, particularly among high-risk individuals aged 50–80 with a significant smoking history (20–30 pack-years or more). LDCT enables detection when treatment is more effective and less invasive.

Germany’s national screening program is expected to save thousands of lives by catching disease at a manageable stage. Additionally, the program’s scope includes identifying related conditions like COPD and cardiovascular disease, promoting broader preventive care.

Germany’s Approach: Balancing Precision and Efficiency

The implementation of the national screening program reflects Germany’s commitment to high medical standards. Supported by clinical trials like HANSE and institutions such as MHH, the initiative combines state-of-the-art imaging with optimized workflows to ensure accurate and timely diagnoses for those who need it most.

Looking Ahead: A Sustainable Model for Lung Cancer Prevention

Germany’s national lung cancer screening initiative is more than a policy milestone—it is a working example of how medical innovation and public health infrastructure can align for systemic impact. If collaboration between healthcare institutions, government bodies, and technology partners continues, Germany is poised to become a leader not only in early lung cancer detection but in holistic respiratory care across Europe.

As a dedicated partner in this shift, Coreline Soft will continue to support data-driven clinical decisions and patient-centered screening environments through its AVIEW platform. This reflects not only a technological contribution but a shared commitment to advancing diagnostic excellence where it matters most—at the point of care.


 

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