STOP-LungCancer: Impact of Lung Cancer Screening With Chest Scans Combined With Coaching on Smoking Cessation in Heavy Smokers

Lung cancer is common and serious, but when detected early, the chances of recovery are significantly better. Tobacco use is the leading cause. To help people break free from smoking, the Fribourg Cantonal Hospital (HFR) and CIPRET, the Fribourg Cancer League are joining forces in the STOP-LungCancer study. What is the goal of this study? We want to determine whether seeing and understanding images of their own lungs helps smokers quit smoking for good. Smoking cessation will be verified at 6 months using a breath test (measuring carbon monoxide), followed by a 2-year follow-up. How does participation work? The study is open to 116 residents of the canton of Fribourg aged 50 to 79 who are heavy smokers and motivated to quit. The program includes: 1. Personalized support: 4 smoking cessation coaching sessions organized by CIPRET. 2. Lung CT scans: 3 exams spaced one year apart. This scan involves no needles or injections. The radiation dose is very low (about 0.6 mSv per scan), and the associated risk is considered very low. 3. A review of the images with a doctor: During dedicated consultations, a thoracic radiologist shows participants their CT scan images to explain the condition of their lungs and heart. What are the benefits? Participants receive both tailored support to quit smoking and close monitoring to detect any potential issues at a very early stage.

Inclusion Criteria: * Residence in the canton of Fribourg * Willingness to quit smoking * Current smoker: \> or = 20 packs years Exclusion Criteria: * Previous diagnosis of cancer * Major medical problems (Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group, ECOG ≥ 2) * Chest CT scan in the last 12 months * Hemoptysis or unintentional weight loss \> 7 kg in the last year * Pregnancy * Refusal to be informed of incidental findings of medical importance