An overview of the program
The goal of Australia’s National Lung Cancer Screening Program is simple: to find lung cancer at its earliest stage, often before symptoms appear. Finding cancer early provides the best chance for successful treatment.
This program uses a quick, painless, and free low-dose CT scan to take a detailed picture of your lungs.
View the Lung Cancer Screening Website here.
Who is Eligible for a Free Scan?
The program is designed for those at the highest risk. You may be eligible for a free scan every two years if you:
- Are aged between 50 and 70.
- Currently smoke or have quit in the last 10 years.
- Have a significant smoking history (your GP can help you assess this).
- Do not currently have any symptoms of lung cancer.
What’s Involved?
The process is simple and starts with a conversation with your GP.
If you’re eligible, your doctor will refer you for the free low-dose CT scan. The results are then sent back to your GP, who will discuss them with you at a follow-up appointment.
The main benefit is finding any potential issues at their earliest and most treatable stage. Your doctor will also discuss any potential risks, such as the small chance of the scan showing something that turns out to be harmless.
Your Next Step
If you think you might be eligible based on the criteria above, book an appointment with your GP at Southland Medical Centre to discuss if the lung cancer screening program is right for you.