National Lung Cancer Screening Program Launches to Save Lives Through Early Detection
04 Nov 2025
Lung cancer is still the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Australia, resulting in more fatalities than any other type of cancer. Even though it is the fourth most frequently diagnosed cancer, finding it early can significantly improve the chances of survival.
To help those at highest risk, the Australian Government has introduced the National Lung Cancer Screening Program (NLCSP), which started on 1 July 2025.
The program is designed to identify lung cancer at an earlier stage, when it is more treatable.
Eligibility for free screening includes the following:
- You are between the ages of 50 and 70
- You currently smoke or have quit within the last 10 years
- You have a smoking history of at least 30 pack-years (such as smoking one pack a day for 30 years)
- You do not have symptoms of lung cancer, like a long-lasting cough or unexplained breathing difficulties
If you're unsure about your smoking history, your general practitioner can assist in calculating it.
The screening process involves a quick and painless low-dose CT scan.
There are no needles, and you won’t need time to recover. It’s a straightforward test that could help save your life.
Early detection is crucial because lung cancer is often discovered at an advanced stage, limiting treatment options.
However, if found early, over 65% of lung cancers can be treated successfully.
This Lung Cancer Awareness Month, take the opportunity to talk to your doctor about whether you are eligible for screening and to get a referral.
For more information, you can call the Lung Cancer Screening Helpline at 1800 654 301.
You can also visit health.gov.au/our-work/nlcsp for further details.
Source: Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care.
