HANSE Project: Transforming Lung Cancer Screening in Germany with AI and Mobile CT

Project Overview: Establishing a New Standard in German Lung Cancer Screening

Running from 2021 over the course of three years, the HANSE Project was a large-scale lung cancer screening study supported by AstraZeneca GmbH and the German Center for Lung Research (DZL). Conducted across three DKG-accredited lung cancer centers (Hannover, Lübeck, Großhansdorf), the study aimed to generate robust scientific evidence for Germany’s national lung cancer screening (LCS) program.
 

Targeting high-risk populations, the study implemented low-dose chest CT (LDCT) in a randomized population-based setting, enrolling over 5,000 participants. One of its most notable innovations was the use of mobile CT units mounted on trucks, rotating between hospitals every two weeks to deliver high-quality imaging to regions with limited access to screening facilities. This model significantly improved screening uptake and image quality consistency.

Role of AI: Coreline Soft’s AVIEW Enhancing Diagnostic Accuracy and Collaboration

Coreline Soft’s AVIEW solution played a central role in improving both diagnostic performance and inter-institutional collaboration throughout the study.

• Dual readings were performed for all scans, conducted by experienced thoracic radiologists and residents using AVIEW to assist in nodule detection and volumetric analysis

• Lung-RADS 1.1 and Volume Doubling Time (VDT) used for standardized growth assessment

• Brock Score and Radiomics features provided for risk stratification

• Coronary Artery Calcification (CAC) and emphysema quantification (LAA-950HU) included, enabling "One CT, Three Disease Screening"

In cases of discordant results or Lung-RADS 3+, the AVIEW platform automatically flagged cases for review via multidisciplinary conferences. The system's remote conference integration and automated reporting—compliant with German medical standards—greatly enhanced consistency, efficiency, and transparency in diagnosis.

Outcomes and Long-Term Implications

As the first major German LCS study to fully incorporate AI, HANSE has laid the foundation for the national rollout of lung cancer screening. It demonstrated:

• Real-world clinical value of AI in radiology

• Increased accuracy and efficiency of radiological interpretation

• Blueprint for integrating AI within Germany’s healthcare workflows

The results of HANSE have been shared across German radiology and oncology conferences, providing valuable insights to healthcare authorities shaping future screening policy.

By serving as a core technical partner, Coreline Soft has established trust and proven capabilities for supporting future AI-driven lung screening initiatives across Germany. Our goal remains to help healthcare providers detect thoracic diseases early and improve patient outcomes through seamless AI integration.