Lung cancer is a silent threat that claims more Australian lives each year than any other cancer, outpacing even breast, prostate, and ovarian cancers.

But today marks a turning point in the fight against this deadly disease, with the launch of the National Lung Cancer Screening Program—the first new national cancer screening initiative in two decades.

Experts predict this program could save more than 12,000 lives over the next ten years. If you or someone you love is in the at-risk group, this could be the most important health news you read all year.

For too long, lung cancer has been a disease shrouded in stigma and uncertainty.

Many people associate it solely with smoking, but the reality is more complex.

Australia’s first national lung cancer screening program in two decades has been launched, with over 12,000 lives expected to be saved. Credit: Mohammed Haneefa Nizamudeen / iStock

Yet, the disease is often detected late—85 per cent of the 15,000 Australians expected to be diagnosed this year will only find out when the cancer is already at an advanced stage, making treatment much more difficult.

The new screening program aims to change that. By catching lung cancer earlier, when it’s more treatable, thousands of lives could be saved.

In fact, estimates suggest that more than 70 per cent of cases could be diagnosed at an earlier stage thanks to this initiative.

The program is designed for Australians aged 50 to 70 who have a significant history of smoking—specifically, those with at least 30 pack-years (that’s the number of packs smoked per day multiplied by the number of years you’ve smoked) and who are either still smoking or quit within the last ten years.

Importantly, you must have no current signs or symptoms of lung cancer to be eligible for free screening.

If you fit the bill, your GP can refer you for a low-dose CT scan, which is a quick and painless way to check for early signs of lung cancer.

The scans are being provided by Sonic Healthcare Australia Radiology, making access easier than ever.

One of the most exciting aspects of the program is its commitment to reaching all Australians, no matter where they live.

From November, mobile screening trucks will hit the road, bringing this life-saving technology to rural and remote communities. This is a game-changer for people who might otherwise struggle to access specialist healthcare.

For Brisbane mum of four Sarah Waters, 52, the new program is a huge relief. After nearly 30 years of smoking, she’s already spoken to her GP about her risks, but the formalised checks bring peace of mind.

‘I think it’ll just take away the unknown, the 'what ifs',’ she said.

‘I know the earlier you get it, the better the chance of coming through it.’

The Albanese government has committed $263.8 million over four years to fund the program, delivered in partnership with the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing, Cancer Australia, and the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation.

However, advocates like Lung Foundation Australia CEO Mark Brooke say there’s more to be done, calling for increased investment in lung cancer nurses and research to further improve outcomes.

If you’re between 50 and 70, have a history of heavy smoking, and have no current symptoms, talk to your GP about getting referred for a CT scan.

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Even if you’re not eligible, it’s worth discussing your risk factors and any concerns with your doctor, especially if you have a family history of lung cancer or have been exposed to other risk factors like asbestos.

Lung cancer isn’t just a smoker’s disease, and it’s time to break the stigma that stops people from seeking help.

Early detection saves lives, and this new program is a huge step forward for all Australians.

Key Takeaways

• Australia has launched its first national lung cancer screening program in 20 years, aiming to save over 12,000 lives in the next decade.
• The program will help diagnose lung cancer earlier, with experts estimating over 70 per cent of cases will be caught at an earlier, more treatable stage.
• Mobile screening clinics will be available from November, making it easier for people in rural and remote areas to access testing.
• Free screening is available for Aussies aged 50–70 with a heavy smoking history, with GPs able to refer eligible patients for CT scans under the new scheme.

Have you or someone you know been affected by lung cancer? Are you eligible for the new screening program, or do you have questions about how it works? We’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences—share your story in the comments below.

Read more: Lifeline for patients: Access to breakthrough cancer drug now 99 per cent cheaper

 

[cjw1960]

My husband was 64 when he was diagnosed with lung cancer. Never smoked cigarettes or taken drugs his entire life. He had a section of his lung removed and is now cancer free. We were told his lung cancer was hereditary as his maternal grandfather and his mother both passed away from lung cancer. So it should be available to everyone

 

[Luckyus]

I used to smoke some bad shit years ago, but I,m certain that one o them wasn't asbestos?

 

[MariaG]

I have lost a husband and 2 siblings to different forms of cancer. I have a niece with bowel cancer, still with me, but very ill. I have one brother-in-law lost and one in recovery from prostate cancer.
How good would it be if some genius found a way to have one test that detects any kind of cancer.
This news about the lung cancer test is good. Would have been great if my sister could have had it detected before stage 4.
The word Cancer is something that puts the fear of God into me. It is becoming more and more commonplace these days. Is it because all these tests are bringing to light conditions that were overlooked before.
Without knowing whys and wherefores, Cancer is a blight on humanity.