Proximity of Breast and Lung Imaging Centers Creates Potential for Combined Screening Visits

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open reveals that breast cancer and lung cancer imaging facilities in the U.S. are frequently located near one another, offering a promising opportunity to improve preventive care by combining screenings into a single visit. The findings suggest that closer coordination between these services could help increase participation in both mammography and low-dose CT (LDCT) lung screening—especially for patients eligible for both but currently underutilizing one or the other.

Using data from the 2022 U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s Mammography Quality Standards Act and the American College of Radiology Lung Cancer Screening Registry, researchers discovered that over 85% of LDCT lung screening sites were within 5 miles of a mammography center. More than half (52.7%) of LDCT sites were even co-located within the same ZIP code as a mammography site.

“Our study highlights a missed opportunity in how cancer screenings are delivered,” said first author Danh V. Nguyen, MD, MS, of the University of California San Diego. “By coordinating lung and breast cancer screenings during the same visit, we could potentially increase uptake of both types of screenings and detect cancers earlier, when they are more treatable.”

The research team emphasized that combining lung and breast screenings could be especially beneficial for women who qualify for both tests—those aged 50 and older with a history of smoking. Although both screening tools are endorsed by federal guidelines, lung cancer screening remains significantly underutilized compared to mammography.

While mammography compliance rates are relatively high, lung screening rates remain low—under 10% of eligible individuals in some areas. Nguyen noted that greater convenience and fewer healthcare visits might encourage more people to undergo both screenings if offered simultaneously.

“Our findings suggest a practical strategy to address gaps in lung cancer screening,” Nguyen said. “With facilities already in place, aligning scheduling systems and increasing awareness could go a long way.”

The researchers recommend that healthcare providers and systems consider leveraging geographic proximity to encourage dual screenings. Doing so could reduce logistical burdens for patients and support earlier detection of two of the deadliest cancers.