Economic issues in lung cancer

The purpose of this study is to review the economics of lung cancer management. The economic literature that relates to the diagnosis, treatment, and palliation of lung cancer as well as the pertinent methodological literature were reviewed. Lung cancer treatment is moderately expensive. The overall cost to society is significant given its high incidence. The cost of staging lung cancer can be minimized through the judicious use of diagnostic and staging procedures. The cost-effectiveness of combined modality therapy and palliative chemotherapy for lung cancer appears reasonable when compared with commonly accepted medical interventions. Based on this review, current approaches to lung cancer diagnosis and treatment are, for the most part, cost-effective. Reasons for inconsistent practice patterns in the management of lung cancer in the medical community should be further explored.