### Introduction to the New Lung Cancer Screening Program
Starting in July, Australia will implement its first new cancer screening program in nearly two decades, focusing on early detection of lung cancer. This initiative aims to identify lung cancer before symptoms appear, potentially saving lives by enabling earlier treatment.
### The Prevalence and Impact of Lung Cancer in Australia
Lung cancer is the fifth most diagnosed cancer in Australia but is responsible for the highest number of cancer-related deaths. It is particularly prevalent among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, rural and remote populations, and lower-income groups. The survival rate for lung cancer is less than 20% over five years, but early detection significantly improves outcomes, with two-thirds of patients surviving five years if diagnosed early.
### Targeted Screening for High-Risk Individuals
Unlike population-wide screening programs, such as those for bowel cancer, the lung cancer screening program targets individuals at higher risk due to their smoking history and age. Specifically, it focuses on people aged 50-70 who have no symptoms of lung cancer, such as persistent cough or chest pain, and who have a significant smoking history.
### Eligibility Criteria for Screening
To qualify for the screening, current smokers must have a history of at least 30 “pack years.” A pack year is calculated by multiplying the number of cigarette packs smoked per day by the number of years the person has smoked. For example, smoking one pack a day for a year equals one pack year. Former smokers who quit within the last 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 lower doses of X-rays to detect lung nodules. These nodules could be cancerous, inflammatory, or scar tissue from past infections. The scan involves lying flat on a table for 10-15 minutes while images of the chest are taken.
### Follow-Up and Results
After the scan, results are 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 screen again in two years. If abnormalities are found, further scans or tests may be required, and a referral to a lung specialist may be necessary if cancer is suspected.
### Benefits and Risks of Screening
International studies have shown that screening high-risk individuals reduces lung cancer mortality, with the benefits outweighing potential harms. The program aims to detect stage 1 lung cancer, which is small and confined to the lung, increasing the chances of successful treatment. The risks of radiation exposure are minimized with low-dose CT scans, but there is a risk of false positives, where imaging suggests cancer that further tests rule out. This can lead to unnecessary invasive procedures for some individuals.
### Government Support and Costs
The Australian government has allocated A$264 million over four years for the lung cancer screening program, with an ongoing annual budget of $101 million. Initial GP consultations will be free if bulk billed, but out-of-pocket fees may apply otherwise. There will be no cost for the low-dose CT scans.
### Encouragement for Smokers and Former Smokers
Individuals aged 50-70 with a heavy smoking history are encouraged to consult their GP about lung cancer screening. Quitting smoking remains the most effective way to reduce lung cancer risk. Former smokers who quit within the last ten years should also consider screening, as lung cancer can develop years after quitting.
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