National Lung Cancer Screening Program (NLCSP): What You Need to Know
The Australian Government is set to introduce a new screening program aimed at identifying lung cancer in defined high-risk populations: the National Lung Cancer Screening Program (NLCSP). This is the first new screening program introduced since the vastly revamped National Cervical Cancer Screening Program (NCCSP) in December 2017 and the recent expansion of the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program (NBCSP) in July 2024.
On July 1st, 2025, the NLCSP will begin, allowing high-risk individuals with a history of heavy smoking to access Medicare rebates for screening CT scans of the lungs to identify lung cancers before they show any signs or symptoms. Eligible individuals can access a low-dose CT scan through a referral from their General Practitioner (GP).
Why is Lung Cancer Screening Important?
Although there has been a steady decline in smoking over the past few decades, lung cancer remains a leading cause of cancer-related death in Australia. According to Cancer Australia, lung cancer is still the fifth most commonly diagnosed cancer in the country. Early detection is key to improving survival outcomes, and following the success of similar programs in the United States, Australia hopes this program will help improve detection rates and enable early intervention, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for those diagnosed with lung cancer.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the NLCSP, individuals must meet the following criteria:
– Age between 50 and 70 (inclusive)
– Smoking history of at least 30 pack-years (equivalent to smoking one pack of 20 cigarettes per day for 30 years)
– Currently smoke or have quit within the past 10 years
While these criteria may seem a bit limited, this is just the first iteration of the program. As with the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program (NBCSP), there may be further expansions in the future, such as extending the eligible age or considering vaping as part of the risk profile. The goal of screening programs is to identify individuals who are at high risk but do not yet show symptoms, and to detect conditions at an early, treatable stage. A successful screening program is not only clinically effective but also cost-effective.
What to Do If You Have Symptoms
It’s important to note that if you already have symptoms of lung cancer, such as persistent coughing, chest pain, or unexplained weight loss, you should consult with your GP outside of any screening recommendations. Screening programs are designed to detect asymptomatic individuals who are at high risk, but they are not meant to replace consultation with a doctor if you are showing symptoms.
Final Thoughts
Lung cancer is a devastating disease, but early detection and intervention can improve outcomes. If you’re aged 50–70 and have a history of heavy smoking, we encourage you to speak with your GP about the current NLCSP and whether you qualify for screening. General Practitioners continue to be the cornerstone of safe primary healthcare in Australia, and it’s essential that everyone has a GP they can consult with. GPs will play a vital role in the NLCSP, providing referrals for those who meet the eligibility criteria for screening. The NLCSP is just one aspect of preventative health that we at Medsana manage, and we continue to encourage our patients to have regular check-ups and maintain open communication with their healthcare providers. Early detection saves lives, and this program aims to give Australians the best chance for a positive outcome.
Dr Alex Ling (GP Specialist)
Watch the video below to learn who qualifies for the new National Lung Cancer Screening Program (NLCSP), how Medicare-funded low-dose CT screening works, and what steps to take if you’re aged 50–70 with a history of heavy smoking.