National Lung Cancer Screening Program
Early detection saves lives. Low-dose CT screening for individuals aged 50-70 with smoking history.
💡 Early detection can increase 5-year survival rates to over 80%
About the National Lung Cancer Screening Program
The National Lung Cancer Screening Program (NLCSP) is a government-funded initiative designed to detect lung cancer early in high-risk individuals. Using low-dose CT scans, we can identify lung cancer before symptoms appear, when treatment is most effective.
Lung cancer is often diagnosed at advanced stages when treatment options are limited. Early detection through screening can dramatically improve outcomes and save lives.
Why Screening Matters
- Early Detection: Find cancer before symptoms develop
- Better Outcomes: Early-stage lung cancer has much higher survival rates
- Low Radiation: Specialized low-dose CT protocols
- Quick & Easy: Non-invasive 10-minute scan
- Government Funded: Eligible participants receive free screening
80%+
5-year survival rate when caught early
10 minutes
Screening duration
Ages 50-70
Eligible age range
Am I Eligible for Lung Cancer Screening?
✅ You May Be Eligible If:
- Age: Between 50-70 years old
- Smoking History: At least 20 pack-years of smoking*
- Current/Recent Smoker: Still smoking or quit within the last 15 years
- Good Health: Able to undergo treatment if cancer is found
- No Symptoms: Not currently experiencing lung cancer symptoms
*Pack-years calculation: Packs per day × years smoked
Example: 1 pack/day for 20 years = 20 pack-years
❌ You Are NOT Eligible If:
- Under 50 or over 70 years old
- Less than 20 pack-years smoking history
- Quit smoking more than 15 years ago
- Currently experiencing lung cancer symptoms
- Previous lung cancer diagnosis
- Serious medical conditions limiting life expectancy
Note: Final eligibility is determined by your healthcare provider. Contact your doctor to discuss if lung cancer screening is right for you.
What to Expect During Screening
Referral & Booking
Get a referral from your GP confirming your eligibility for the NLCSP. Book your appointment online or by phone.
Pre-Screening Discussion
We'll discuss the benefits and risks of screening, answer your questions, and ensure you're comfortable proceeding.
The Screening
A quick, painless low-dose CT scan of your chest. You'll lie on a table that moves through the scanner for about 10 minutes.
Results & Follow-up
Results are sent to your referring doctor within a few days. They'll discuss the results and any recommended next steps.
Understanding Your Screening Results
Normal Result
Most Common Outcome
No suspicious areas found. Continue with regular check-ups and follow screening schedule.
Requires Follow-up
Additional Testing Needed
Small abnormalities detected that need monitoring. May require repeat scans or further investigation.
Urgent Follow-up
Immediate Action Required
Suspicious findings that require prompt medical evaluation and possible biopsy.
Remember: Finding an abnormality doesn't necessarily mean cancer. Many lung nodules are benign (non-cancerous).
Benefits and Considerations
✅ Benefits of Screening
- Early detection when treatment is most effective
- Significantly improved survival rates
- More treatment options available
- Peace of mind for high-risk individuals
- Low radiation dose protocols
- Quick, non-invasive procedure
⚠️ Potential Risks & Limitations
- Small amount of radiation exposure
- False positives may cause anxiety
- May detect slow-growing cancers that wouldn't cause problems
- Additional tests may be needed
- Not all lung cancers can be detected by screening
- Doesn't replace the need to quit smoking
🚭 Quit Smoking for Better Health
Lung cancer screening is not a substitute for quitting smoking. The best way to reduce your lung cancer risk is to stop smoking completely.
Benefits of Quitting Smoking:
Get Help to Quit:
- Quitline: 13 7848 (13 QUIT)
- Online: quit.org.au
- Your GP: Discuss nicotine replacement therapy and medications
How to Prepare for Your Screening
Before Your Appointment
- No special preparation required
- Continue taking medications as normal
- Wear comfortable clothing without metal fasteners
- Remove jewelry and metal objects
What to Bring
- Referral confirming NLCSP eligibility
- Medicare card
- List of current medications
- Previous chest imaging (if available)
Take Action for Your Lung Health
If you're eligible for lung cancer screening, don't wait. Early detection saves lives.
Speak to your GP first to confirm your eligibility for the National Lung Cancer Screening Program.