As the National Lung Cancer Screening Program (NLCSP) prepares to roll out in July 2025, the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists (RANZCR) reflects on its contribution to the initiative, which has the potential to save 500 lives annually.
The National Lung Cancer Screening Program is an Australian Government initiative in partnership with Cancer Australia and the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO). The program uses low-dose computed tomography (low-dose CT) scans to look for lung cancer in eligible asymptomatic high-risk people aged between 50 and 70 years.
“The National Lung Cancer Screening Program is Australia’s first new screening program in 20 years, and it provides a significant step forward in the early detection and diagnosis of lung cancer,” said Professor John Slavotinek, RANZCR President.
“Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Australia. Detecting and diagnosing it early represents a life-saving paradigm shift in our approach to this devastating disease.”
Lung cancer is often diagnosed at a late stage, when treatment options are limited, and survival rates are low. However, research shows that low-dose CT scans can detect lung cancer at its earliest, most treatable, and curable stage.
Professor Slavotinek says radiologists play a central role in the program, as the interpretation of low-dose CT scans requires the expertise to identify subtle and often complex features.
“Right from the planning stages, our members have been pivotal in this initiative, volunteering their time and expertise, and drawing upon the latest evidence-based guidelines and diagnostic tools to inform the screening approach,” said Professor Slavotinek.
“In addition, RANZCR has worked closely with peak bodies to train and upskill the radiology sector in preparation for the program’s launch. This includes collaborating with the Australian and New Zealand Society of Thoracic Radiology (ANZSTR) to develop extensive radiology resources, including essential guidelines and a radiology education program, encompassing face-to-face workshops and webinars. The response we’ve received from radiologists has been overwhelmingly positive, which reflects strong sector-wide support of the program.
“As we celebrate the program’s launch, we will continue to support radiologists to facilitate high-quality, effective screening that improves lung cancer detection and patient outcomes.”
Source: RANZCR
