Lung screening program take-up revealed

Around 50,000 people have taken part in the first new Australian cancer screening program to launch in almost two decades since it began last July.
 
According to newly released Government figures, as of mid-December 2025, 49,473 people had enrolled in the National Lung Cancer Screening Program.
 
It offers at-risk patients aged between 50–70 years with a history of smoking who are currently asymptomatic a low-dose computed tomography (CT) scan to help detect the disease.
 
From the CT scans completed so far, around 5000 patients have been flagged for more frequent follow-up screening, while another 560 needed immediate further investigation.
 
Professor Dorothy Keefe, Cancer Australia chief executive, says the program is already making a difference.
 
‘This program represents a major milestone in Australia’s efforts to improve cancer outcomes,’ she said.
 
‘As one of the first countries in the world to implement a national lung cancer screening program, we are detecting lung cancer early and improving survival through culturally safe, accessible screening services.
 
‘We encourage everyone who may be eligible to take part in the program – early detection saves lives.’
 
Lung cancer is among the five most diagnosed cancers in Australia, and the leading cause of cancer death. 
 
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, the five-year survival rate for lung cancer from 2017–21 stood at 27%, the lowest by a significant margin for any type of cancer in Australia.
 
Announced in 2023, the National Lung Cancer Screening Program is the first nationwide initiative of its kind since the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program began in 2006.
 
More information on identifying and assessing patients for eligibility for the lung cancer screening program can be found in the RACGP’s Red Book for preventive activities.
 
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