Evaluating lung cancer risk and early detection in firefighters

Lung Cancer Risk and Early Detection in Firefighters

Not applicable Interventional Massachusetts General Hospital · NCT04614129

This study is testing if low-dose CT scans can help find lung cancer earlier in firefighters compared to non-firefighters and if a special blood test can improve how we assess their risk.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment850 (estimated)
Ages40 Years to 80 Years
SexAll
SponsorMassachusetts General Hospital Academic / other
Locations1 site (Boston, Massachusetts)
Trial IDNCT04614129 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to assess differences in low-dose CT (LDCT) findings between firefighters and non-firefighters, exploring the relationship between occupational exposures and these findings. It will also investigate whether a proteomics assay can enhance risk stratification for screen-detected nodules. The study will involve 850 current and retired firefighters and 1,120 matched controls, focusing on their lung health and cancer risk. Participants will undergo LDCT screening at Massachusetts General Hospital or provide previous screening images.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include current or retired firefighters aged 40-80 with no personal history of lung cancer.

Not a fit: Patients with any active cancer or those diagnosed within the past five years may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved early detection and risk assessment for lung cancer in firefighters, potentially saving lives.

How similar studies have performed: While there is ongoing research into lung cancer detection, this specific approach focusing on firefighters is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* 40-80 years of age or with 10 years of firefighting experience
* Current or retired firefighters
* No personal history of lung cancer
* Willing and able to receive LDCT screening at MGH or who have been screened via LDCT within the past year at MGH or another institution, and are willing to release their images to the study

Exclusion Criteria:

* Any active cancer (undergoing treatment or diagnosed within the past 5 years)

Where this trial is running

Boston, Massachusetts

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Lung CancerLung Diseases
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.