Lung cancer screening scheme detects 230 hidden cases

More than 230 hidden cases of cancer have been identified as tens of thousands of Australians came forward to get tested.

The National Lung Cancer Screening Program, launched by the Albanian government a year ago, provided access to free screenings.

Almost 100,000 Australians came forward in the first 12 months.

And new figures have shown that the initiative is helping catch lung cancer earlier, paving the way for more effective treatment options for patients.

More than 230 cases of primary lung cancer were detected in the first year of the program.

Approximately 9,000 Australians die from lung cancer each year (about one person every hour), making lung cancer the deadliest disease in the country.

However, if caught early, more than 65 percent of lung cancers can be treated successfully. Available in all states, it provides low-dose CAT scans to Australians at high risk of lung cancer, particularly smokers aged 50 to 70.

Health Minister Mark Butler said he “strongly encourages” eligible people to sign up.

“Lung cancer is one of Australia’s biggest killers, and when patients present with symptoms, lung cancer is often diagnosed at an advanced stage. If diagnosed early, treatment options are greater and more likely to be effective,” he said.

“The free National Lung Cancer Screening Program is potentially saving Australians’ lives in its first year.”