A cancer that often stays silent

Lung cancer often doesn’t cause symptoms in its early stages. By the time people notice something’s wrong, such as a persistent cough, breathlessness or chest pain, the cancer has frequently progressed. National data from Cancer Australia shows more than half of lung cancers in Australia are diagnosed at an advanced stage.

Finding lung cancer before symptoms appear can open up more treatment options. That’s what lung cancer screening is designed to do.

The National Lung Cancer Screening Program

The National Lung Cancer Screening Program offers eligible Australians a bulk-billed low-dose CT scan of the chest. A low-dose CT uses a lower amount of radiation than a standard CT and takes only a few minutes.

You may be eligible if you meet all of the following:

  • are aged 50-70
  • have no signs or symptoms of lung cancer
  • currently smoke, or have quit within the last 10 years
  • have a smoking history of at least 30 pack-years (for example, a pack a day for 30 years, or two packs a day for 15 years)

Your GP will assess your eligibility and check whether a low-dose CT is suitable for you before referring you. You can check the eligibility criteria on the Department of Health website.

How the program works

Once you’re in the program, screening becomes part of your routine health care. Your results are sent to your GP and recorded in the National Cancer Screening Register and your My Health Record, so your care is coordinated over time.

  • If your scan shows no findings, you’ll be reminded to return every two years
  • If something is found, you’ll receive follow-up reminders as needed
  • You can keep screening until you turn 71, as long as you have no symptoms – even if it’s been more than 10 years since you quit smoking

Your GP will need to provide a new referral for each scan, including follow-ups and two-yearly recalls.

Start the conversation

Many people who are eligible don’t think screening is for them, especially if they feel well or quit smoking years ago. If someone in your life fits the criteria, encourage them to talk to their GP.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people can also speak with their doctor, nurse or health worker at their local Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation.

If you currently smoke, it’s never too late to quit. Support is available through Quitline on 13 78 48.

Screening at Jones Radiology

Jones Radiology is a participating provider for the National Lung Cancer Screening Program, with low-dose CT scans available across our clinics and reported by our subspecialist radiologists.

Not eligible for the program? Talk to your GP about Wellness Imaging

If you’re at increased risk of lung cancer but don’t meet the program criteria, a low-dose CT chest scan through Jones Radiology Wellness Imaging may help identify changes earlier, before symptoms appear. These scans are available at a private fee with a GP referral.

Wellness Imaging isn’t suitable for everyone, and it’s not for people who have symptoms. That’s why the first step is a conversation with your GP, who can help you decide whether it’s right for you. If you do have symptoms, your GP may refer you for a diagnostic CT instead.

To book, call 1800 375 663 or book online. You can also find your nearest clinic and opening hours.