David F. Yankelevitz

Papers

Total Citations

H-Index

About

David F. Yankelevitz is a pioneering researcher in thoracic radiology and lung cancer screening, best known for his transformative contributions to early detection and minimally invasive treatment of lung cancer. His work has fundamentally shaped how clinicians approach lung nodule management and surgical interventions. Yankelevitz has been instrumental in developing and validating low-dose CT screening protocols, significantly improving survival rates for high-risk populations. Among his most notable recent contributions is a landmark 2025 study comparing quality of life outcomes after robotic-assisted (RATS) and video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) for early-stage non–small cell lung cancer, which has already garnered 3 citations. This prospective cohort work addresses a critical gap in understanding how surgical approaches affect patients' physical and mental well-being. With thousands of citations across his career, Yankelevitz's research has had profound clinical impact, influencing international screening guidelines and surgical decision-making. His achievements include leadership roles in major clinical trials and recognition as a key figure in the International Early Lung Cancer Action Program (I-ELCAP). For students and researchers, Yankelevitz exemplifies how rigorous imaging research can directly translate into life-saving clinical practice.