In this episode of The Good GP, host Dr Julia Rawlinson is joined by Dr David Manners, respiratory consultant and lung cancer and bronchoscopy subspecialist at Midland Hospital, to discuss the National Lung Cancer Screening Program launching across Australia on 1 July. To outline the rationale behind the new guidelines, highlighting that lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related mortality in Australia, typically presenting at a late stage when curative treatment is less likely.

Dr Manners explains the evidence base for low-dose CT screening, referencing the US-based NLST and European Nelson studies, both of which demonstrated a significant reduction in lung cancer mortality among high-risk individuals. He also provides an overview of international screening efforts, comparing Australia’s rollout with programs in the US, Europe, and Canada.

Eligibility criteria for the Australian program are detailed: patients aged 50 to 70 years, with a smoking history of 30 or more pack years, and for ex-smokers, having quit within the past 10 years. The reporting pathway and follow-up guidelines for detected nodules are also covered, including the importance of family history in risk assessment.

They also covered why the Australian eligibility criteria were chosen, based on international evidence and local health economics analysis, and emphasises that the screening program is intended for asymptomatic individuals. 

For further information and resources about the National Lung Cancer Screening Program, please refer to the resources below:

• CPD and training: https://lungfoundation.com.au/health-professionals/training-and-events/national-lung-cancer-screening-program-health-workforce-education/?utm_source=Google&utm_medium=PerformanceMax&utm_campaign=NLCSP_2025&utm_content=PMAX&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22441651848&gbraid=0AAAAABIcwmqPnfnhOcrfcfcgRcZryqtqb&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI-vuFxd-TjgMVtahmAh2vtAmiEAAYASAAEgLwK_D_BwE
• Programme Guidelines - pdf download: https://www.health.gov.au/sites/default/files/2025-04/national-lung-cancer-screening-program-guidelines.pdf
• Pack year calculator: https://www.mdcalc.com/calc/10187/pack-years-calculator

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