Early detection of lung cancer
What current evidence and the new national program mean for you —
Author: Dr Irina Al Muderis
Background
Lung cancer remains one of the largest causes of cancer‑related death in Australia. However, thanks to recent developments in screening, a new national program is poised to change the landscape of early detection and improve survival outcomes. As your general practitioner, I want to ensure you understand what the screening offers, whether you may be eligible, and how you can access it.
In Australia, over 9,000 people die each year from lung cancer.
The poor survival rate for lung cancer is largely because most cases are detected at a late, often incurable, stage.
International randomised trials, such as the NLST and NELSON studies, have shown that low‑dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening in selected high‑risk individuals can reduce mortality by around 20–24%.
The Australian Government has committed to a national screening initiative, the National Lung Cancer Screening Program (NLCSP), with roll‑out expected from 2025/26.
Aims of the screening program
The program is designed to:
Detect lung cancer at earlier, more treatable stages, thereby improving survival and reducing morbidity.
Shift the stage at diagnosis — detect more early Stage I or II lung cancers rather than late stage ones
Provide equitable access, including for people in regional, rural and remote communities, and for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and other priority groups.
Integrate smoking‑cessation support alongside screening.
Eligibility criteria
You are eligible to participate in the national program if you meet all of the following:
Aged between 50 and 70 years.
Asymptomatic (no signs or symptoms suggesting lung cancer).
Currently smoking or have quit within the past 10 years.
A history of tobacco cigarette smoking equivalent to at least 30 pack‑years (e.g. 1 pack/day for 30 years).
Once in the program, you may continue screening even if you stopped smoking more than 10 years ago.
How the screening process works
See your GP — your smoking history and eligibility will be assessed.
If eligible, your GP will request a low‑dose CT scan of your chest.
The scan is quick (about 10‑15 minutes) and non‑invasive.
Results are reviewed and entered into the National Cancer Screening Register.
You will be recalled for repeat or follow‑up scans as appropriate.
What you should know
Screening is targeted to those at higher risk to maximise benefit.
GP consultations for assessment may be bulk‑billed (check with your provider).
Smoking cessation support is strongly encouraged.
Why it matters
Early‑stage lung cancer has a much better prognosis than late‑stage disease. Five‑year survival for Stage I lung cancer can exceed 60–70%. Modelling suggests the new program may prevent up to 12,000 deaths over the coming decade. The program includes mobile CT units to reach regional and rural communities.
What to do
For patients who meet the eligibility criteria for the National Lung Cancer Screening Program, consultations to assess eligibility and referrals for the low‑dose CT scan will be bulk‑billed at our clinic. The CT scan itself is covered under Medicare‑funded items and will incur no out‑of‑pocket cost for eligible participants.
If you believe you qualify, please book a dedicated screening‑assessment appointment.
Dr Irina Al Muderis, Key Health St Leonards
Dr Irina will be bulk billing patients who fulfil the criteria for screening.
