Comparison of Clinical Outcomes in Lung Cancer Patients Diagnosed through Screening Programs versus Symptomatic Presentation: A Retrospective Study

Objectives The objective of this study is to compare the clinical outcomes of lung cancer patients diagnosed through screening programs (workplace screening, premarital screening, and check-up programs) and those diagnosed based on symptomatic presentation, all of whom underwent video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) lobectomy or segmentectomy between 2019 and 2021. Methods A retrospective study was conducted involving 45 patients diagnosed with stage I and II lung cancer. Patients with comorbid conditions, those with a history of major surgery, tuberculosis, or cancer, and those aged over 65 were excluded. All included patients received chemotherapy. Patients were divided into two groups: Those diagnosed through screening programs (16 patients) and those diagnosed based on symptoms (29 patients). All patients underwent VATS lobectomy or segmentectomy. Postoperative complications, 36-month survival rates, and causes of death were compared between the groups. Results The 36-month survival rate was higher in the screening group compared to the symptomatic group. Additionally, the recurrence rate was lower in the screening group. Among symptomatic patients, 3 presented with hemoptysis. Causes of death included respiratory failure, metastasis, and cardiovascular events. These findings suggest that early diagnosis through screening programs leads to better clinical outcomes. Conclusions Screening programs for lung cancer facilitate early diagnosis and treatment, resulting in improved survival rates and lower recurrence rates. The implementation and promotion of these programs could significantly enhance patient outcomes.