One of the most difficult cancers to detect early has been lung cancer. Patients often present with advanced disease that and can often be fatal.

In April 2025, a new National Lung Cancer Screening program has been rolled out in Australia to detect asymptomatic patients with a significant smoking history (30 Pack-Year). Suitable patients are eligible for a free low-dose CT (computer tomography) scan on their lungs to identify any potential lesions suspicious for cancer.

This is the story of lung cancer screening.

Our special guests:

A/Professor Nicole Rankin is Head of the Evaluation and Implementation Science Unit in Melbourne School of Population and Global Health (University of Melbourne) and led the team that developed the Australian National Lung Cancer Screening Program Guidelines.

Dr Julie Teague is an Anatomical Pathologist with an interest in thoracic and gastrointestinal pathology.