by dr georgia page, GP at your family doctors, erina
Australia has long been a world leader in cancer prevention, with well–established national screening programs for breast, cervical, and bowel cancers. Now, for the first time, lung cancer is joining that list. As of July 1, a new National Lung Cancer Screening Program is available across the country offering eligible Australians a chance to detect lung cancer early, when treatment is most effective.
Why lung cancer screening matters
Lung cancer is the fifth most common cancer and remains the leading causes of cancer death in Australia. Each year, more than 13,000 Australians are diagnosed with lung cancer, and sadly, over 8,000 lose their lives to the disease. That’s more than breast, prostate, and ovarian cancer deaths combined.
One of the biggest challenges is that lung cancer often doesn’t show symptoms until it’s already advanced. That’s where this new program can make a massive difference by finding cancers when they’re small and more treatable.
What is lung cancer screening?
The screening uses a special type of scan called a low–dose computed tomography (CT) scan. Unlike a regular chest X–ray, which can miss small abnormalities, a low–dose CT scan creates detailed images of your lungs using a much lower dose of radiation than a traditional CT scan.
Research shows that regular screening with a low–dose CT can reduce deaths from lung cancer. In trials overseas, lung cancer screening has been shown to detect around 70% of lung cancers at an early stage – a time when treatment can be more successful and less invasive. If detected early, more than 65% of lung cancers can be successfully treated.
The scan is quick, painless, and uses a much lower dose of radiation than a typical CT scan. It provides a clear image of the lungs, allowing doctors to spot any signs of cancer long before symptoms might appear.
Who is eligible for lung cancer screening?
The new screening program is designed for people who are at higher risk of developing lung cancer. Specifically, it targets those who:
- Are aged between 50 and 70 years.
- Currently smoke or have smoked in the past (equivalent to a pack a day for 30 years).
- Do not have symptoms of lung cancer.
Even if someone quit smoking years ago, they may still be eligible due to the lasting effects tobacco can have on the lungs.
The screening is free, and eligibility is assessed in consultation with a GP. If you or someone you know falls into this group, it’s worth having a conversation with your doctor to see if screening is appropriate.
What’s involved in the screening process?
Participating in the program is simple and involves the following steps:
Book an appointment with your GP
Your doctor will talk with you about your medical and smoking history to determine if you meet the eligibility criteria. This includes determining if you have a ’pack–a–day for 30 years’ history of smoking.
Check eligibility and enrol in the program
If you qualify, your GP will help you enrol in the National Cancer Screening Register (NCSR), and you’ll give your consent to participate.
Referral for a low–dose CT scan
You’ll be referred to an imaging centre for your scan.
Have the scan
The scan takes only a few minutes and does not require any preparation.
Receive your results
Your scan results will be reviewed and shared with your GP. If anything unusual is found, your doctor will discuss next steps, which may include further tests or monitoring. If you are found to be low risk you will get a reminder to repeat the test in 2 years.
What if you’re not eligible?
If you’re outside the eligible age range or don’t have a smoking history, you won’t qualify for this program. However, it’s still important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of lung cancer, which can include:
- A persistent or worsening cough.
- Chest pain.
- Coughing up blood.
- Shortness of breath.
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Ongoing fatigue.
If you experience any of these symptoms, you should speak to your GP as soon as possible – regardless of your eligibility for the screening program.
A new chapter in cancer prevention
The introduction of this program brings lung cancer screening into line with Australia’s other successful national screening efforts. Breast, cervical, and bowel cancer programs have already made a major impact in reducing deaths from those cancers, and lung cancer screening is expected to do the same over time.
If you’re in the 50 to 70 age group and have a smoking history, don’t assume you’re in the clear just because you feel fine. Lung cancer can grow quietly and a simple, free scan could catch it before it becomes serious.
Book an appointment with your GP to find out if you’re eligible.
Dr Georgia Page enjoys all aspects of general practice and has been working at Your Family Doctors at Erina for the past 12 years. The practice has a fabulous team and they pride themselves on delivering good quality health care, with that special personal touch. For more information call 4365 4999, check the website www.yourfamilydoctors.com.au or like them on Facebook.
Resources – National Lung Cancer Screening Program www.health.gov.au/our-work/nlcsp