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Explore the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Lung Study
Access to Data

Learn About the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Lung Study

Summary

The Memorial Sloan-Kettering Lung Study (MEM) was a randomized screening trial designed to test if lung cancer mortality rates could be reduced through the addition of regular cytomorphological screening of sputum to an annual chest x-ray screening regimen. The reported lung cancer mortality rates were similar between the two arms indicating the additional cytological screening did not result in a benefit. The follow-up of participants was of limited duration.


Study Years:

  • Enrollment: June 10, 1974 to January 10, 1978
  • Screening was phased out, starting in January 1982 and ending October 31, 1982.
  • Participants were screened for five to eight years, depending on date of enrollment.

Randomized trial with two arms:

  • Arms
    • Control: Single-Screen: Annual Chest X-Ray Only
    • Intervention: Dual-Screen: Annual Chest X-Ray and four-monthly sputum cytology

Study Eligibility:
  • Ages Eligible for Study: 45+ Years
  • Sexes Eligible for Study: Male
  • Smoked at least one pack of cigarettes per day (or this much within one year of enrollment)
  • No history of respiratory tract cancer