About screening for lung cancer
Lung cancer is a cancer that starts in the lungs. A group of cells that are not normal can grow out of control. It can also spread to other parts of the body.
Lung cancer is the fifth most common cancer and the leading cause of cancer death in Australia. Learn more about lung cancer and its main symptoms.
Lung cancer screening looks for signs of cancer while you are feeling well and before you have any symptoms. It uses a low-dose computed tomography (CT) scan to take images of the chest to look for any small lumps, called nodules.
Screening can help to detect up to 70% of lung cancers earlier. This will reduce the number of patients who need treatment for advanced stage lung cancer, when the survival rate is much lower.
If you have a higher risk for lung cancer, lung cancer screening may find cancer early when treatment works best. Lung cancer screening could save your life.
Eligible participants do not need to quit smoking to participate in the program.
What happens during an appointment?
When you arrive for your scan, a friendly staff member will help you through the process. You’ll go to a private space just for you, so no one else will see you while your scan is done. You can bring a family member or friend with you if you would like to do so.
Next, you will be asked to lie flat on your back with your arms above your head. You may need to hold your breath for a few seconds, while staying still. You will not need to have any needles. The radiographer will then take images of your chest.
Screening takes up to 20 minutes. It’s quick and easy, and you can ask questions or take a break at any time if you need to. You’re in good hands!
What should I wear to an appointment?
Wear comfortable clothing that is easy to change in and out of, as you may be asked to change into a gown for a scan. It is also a good idea to remove any jewellery before you go for a scan. This includes rings, watches, necklaces and piercings. Otherwise, you will be asked to remove them at your appointment.
Find out more about getting ready for an appointment.
What happens after I’ve had a scan?
After your scan, a radiologist will review your results. You won’t get your results on the day of your scan. The NCSR will let you know what to do next. This may be a reminder (by text message or letter) to screen in two years or to book an appointment to see your doctor for your results.
If nothing is found
If there are no findings, the notification from the NCSR will let you know to continue with regular health check-ups and your next low-dose CT scan will be in 2 years.
If something is found
If your screen finds anything that needs a closer look, the notification from the NCSR will encourage you to speak with your healthcare provider about your results. They will review the radiology report and request you have more frequent scans to monitor the findings or will refer you to a specialist for further investigation.
It is important to remember that the low-dose CT scan can sometimes find one or more nodules that need further investigation, but this does not mean you may have cancer. Sometimes the scan can show things either in the lungs (something other than cancer, such as emphysema), or outside of the lungs (such as heart disease). If you have findings not related to lung cancer, the NCSR will encourage you to see your doctor.
Where can I get screened?
Lung screening can be done at your local radiology clinic (also known as a medical imaging provider). Check with your healthcare where it is offered near you. You can also get screened at a mobile screening truck location in some rural and remote areas.
How do I make an appointment?
The first step is to have a chat with your healthcare provider to find out if you are eligible to participate in the program. If you are eligible and suitable for screening, and consent to take part in lung cancer screening, your healthcare provider will refer you for a free low-dose CT scan covered by Medicare.
You can then check with your healthcare provider where lung cancer screening is offered in your area. You can then book your scan online, by telephone or in person. Let them know you are taking part in the lung cancer screening program. Make sure you bring your Medicare card and CT request form to the appointment.