Not in Victoria?
Blog

National Lung Cancer Screening Program 2025

Published on Posted on

Lung cancer remains a significant health concern in Australia, being the fifth most common cancer and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Recognizing the critical importance of early detection, the Australian Government is set to launch the National Lung Cancer Screening Program (NLCSP) in July 2025. This initiative aims to identify lung cancer in its early stages among high-risk individuals, thereby improving treatment outcomes and reducing mortality rates. As this initiative is expected to increase the prevalence of lung cancer diagnoses, it is also important to consider what your next steps may be.

Understanding the NLCSP

The NLCSP is designed to screen asymptomatic individuals aged between 50 and 70 years who have a significant history of smoking. Utilizing low dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, the program seeks to detect lung cancer before symptoms manifest, facilitating earlier and more effective interventions. Research indicates that early-stage detection can significantly enhance survival rates and quality of life for patients.

Eligibility Criteria for the NLCSP

To participate in the NLCSP, individuals must meet the following criteria:

  • Age: Between 50 and 70 years.
  • Smoking History: A history of at least 30 pack-years of cigarette smoking. This equates to smoking one pack per day for 30 years or two packs per day for 15 years.
  • Current Smoking Status: Either currently smoking or having quit within the past 10 years.

It is important to note that the program targets individuals without current symptoms of lung cancer. Those exhibiting symptoms should consult their healthcare provider promptly.

Why Joining the Screening Program is Important

Early diagnosis is linked to higher survival rates and a better quality of life. The NLCSP aims to reduce the number of patients requiring treatment for advanced-stage lung cancer, in which survival rates are lower and treatments can be more demanding.

By catching lung cancer in its early stages, the program is expected to prevent over 500 deaths each year. Treatments for early-stage cancer are often more effective and less physically taxing, with surgical removal of the tumour being a common option. In contrast, stage 3 or 4 lung cancer, which often involves the spread of cancer beyond the lungs, may necessitate more invasive treatments aimed at slowing cancer growth and maintaining quality of life. Researchers estimate that with the NLCSP, early-stage diagnoses (stage 1) will increase from 16% to 60%, while advanced-stage (stage 4) cases will decrease from 53% to 11%.

While smoking is a primary risk factor for lung cancer, occupational exposures also play a significant role. Individuals working in industries such as mining, construction, manufacturing, welding, stonemasonry and agriculture may be exposed to carcinogens including asbestos, silica dust, diesel exhaust, and certain chemicals, all of which can increase lung cancer risk. It could take decades between exposure and showing symptoms and/or changes to be detected on imaging. Therefore, even if you may be retired it does not exclude an occupational link between your cancer and past exposures.

If you are undergoing lung cancer screening, it is crucial to consider your occupational history. Exposure to hazardous substances in the workplace, even if exposure occurred decades the past, may have contributed to the development of lung cancer or other respiratory changes. In such cases, you may be entitled to compensation.

Eligibility for Compensation

If you are diagnosed with lung cancer, you may be entitled to WorkCover statutory benefits compensation based on the nature of your employment (whether current or former employment). Please note that smoking does not necessarily preclude entitlement to compensation.

It must be shown that the nature of your employment significantly increased the risk of contracting lung cancer. There is no requirement to prove that the employment was the direct cause.

A worker diagnosed with lung cancer may be entitled to claim WorkCover compensation for:

How we can Help

If the screening reveals that you have lung cancer, you should see your general practitioner or specialist to determine if you have any conditions or diseases that may be due to the nature of your employment.

It is important that you give an occupational history.

Given that the period between exposure and the onset of symptoms can be lengthy, early preventative measures and detection is highly recommended.

To assist you in determining whether you may be entitled to compensation, you can contact us for a No Fee, Obligation appointment.