Association of Receipt of Positron Emission Tomography–Computed Tomography With Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer Mortality in the Veterans Affairs Health Care System

Abstract

Key Points Question What is the association of the use of positron emission tomography–computed tomography and outcomes for the management of non–small cell lung cancer? Findings This cohort study of 64\u2009103 veterans with non–small cell lung cancer in the US Department of Veterans Affairs health care system showed that utilization of positron emission tomography–computed tomography in the 12 months before diagnosis was associated with increased likelihood of stage-appropriate treatment and decreased mortality for veterans with non–small cell lung cancer. Meaning Findings suggest that use of positron emission tomography–computed tomography before diagnosis was associated with a higher level of care for veterans with non–small cell lung cancer and that it was associated with decreased mortality.