Introduction to the New Lung Cancer Screening Program
Starting in July, Australia will implement a groundbreaking lung cancer screening program, marking the first new cancer screening initiative in nearly two decades. This program is designed to identify lung cancer at an early stage, before symptoms become apparent and the disease progresses. Early detection is crucial, as it significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and survival.
The Prevalence and Impact of Lung Cancer in Australia
Lung cancer is the fifth most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia, yet it is responsible for the highest number of cancer-related deaths. The disease is particularly prevalent among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, rural and remote populations, and lower-income groups. Unfortunately, the overall five-year survival rate for lung cancer patients is less than 20%. However, if the cancer is detected early, when it is still small and localized, the survival rate jumps to approximately 66%.
Eligibility Criteria for Lung Cancer Screening
The screening program specifically targets individuals at higher risk of developing lung cancer, based on their smoking history and age. Unlike population-wide screening programs, such as those for bowel cancer, this initiative focuses on individuals aged 50 to 70 who have no symptoms of lung cancer, such as persistent cough, breathlessness, or unexplained weight loss.
To qualify, current smokers must have a history of at least 30 “pack years.” This is calculated by multiplying the number of cigarette packs smoked per day by the number of years the individual has smoked. For example, smoking one pack per day for a year equals one pack year. Those who have quit smoking within the past ten years but accumulated 30 or more pack years before quitting are also eligible.
The Screening Process
Eligible individuals will be referred for a low-dose computed tomography (CT) scan, which uses significantly lower doses of X-rays compared to a standard CT scan. This method is effective in detecting small nodules in the lungs, which could indicate cancer, inflammation, or scarring from past infections. The procedure involves lying flat on a table for 10 to 15 minutes while the scan is conducted.
After the scan, results will be sent to the patient, their general practitioner (GP), and the National Cancer Screening Register. If the scan is normal, the individual will be reminded to undergo screening again in two years. If the scan reveals findings that require further investigation, the patient will be referred back to their GP for additional scans or tests.
Benefits and Risks of Lung Cancer Screening
International studies have demonstrated that screening high-risk individuals can reduce the likelihood of premature death from lung cancer. The primary goal is to increase the detection of stage 1 lung cancer, which is small and confined to the lung, thereby improving treatment outcomes.
While the risks associated with radiation exposure are minimized through low-dose CT scans, there is a possibility of false positives. This occurs when imaging suggests cancer, but subsequent tests rule it out. False positives can lead to unnecessary repeat scans or invasive biopsies, where a sample of the nodule is taken to check for cancerous cells. Overdiagnosis is another concern, as some detected cancers may never cause harm during the patient’s lifetime.
Government Support and Cost Considerations
The Australian government has allocated A$264 million over four years for the lung cancer screening program, with an additional $101 million annually thereafter. The initial GP consultation will be free if the GP bulk bills; otherwise, there may be an out-of-pocket fee. This could pose a barrier to participation for some individuals. However, the low-dose CT scans will be provided at no cost.
Conclusion: Taking Action for Lung Health
If you are between 50 and 70 years old and have a significant smoking history, it is advisable to consult your GP about lung cancer screening. Quitting smoking remains the most effective way to reduce lung cancer risk. However, for those who have quit within the past ten years, screening is still recommended to ensure early detection of any potential issues.
This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article [here](https://theconversation.com/lung-cancer-screening-is-about-to-start-what-you-need-to-know-if-you-smoke-or-have-quit-253227).
🔗 **Fuente:** https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-06-lung-cancer-screening.html