New screening method aims to catch lung cancer earlier in asbestos workers

NCT ID NCT01687647

Terminated Diagnosis Sponsor: University Hospital, Caen Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study looked at whether analyzing sputum (phlegm) with automated cytometry, combined with low-dose CT scans and blood tests, could better detect lung cancer in workers heavily exposed to asbestos. The goal was to reduce false positives and improve early diagnosis. The trial involved 463 participants but was terminated early, so its full potential remains unclear.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: low-dose CT-scan, induced sputum sample, and blood test
What this could lead to: If successful, this approach could improve early lung cancer detection in high-risk asbestos workers while reducing unnecessary follow-ups from false alarms.
What could go wrong: The study was terminated early, so results are limited. The methods are still experimental and may not be better than current screening practices.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for LUNG CANCER are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

lung cancer lung neoplasm

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

LUNG NEOPLASMS

Contacts and locations

Locations

Caen University Hospital

Caen, 14000, France
Le Havre Hospital

Le Havre, 76600, France
Rouen University Hospital

Rouen, 76031, France

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.