Eligible people can now receive screening for lung cancer through the National Lung Cancer Screening Program (NLCSP). In this blog post, the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists (RANZCR) reflects on its contribution to the initiative, which has the potential to save 500 lives each year.
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death in Australia, with almost 9,000 deaths recorded in 2024. Historically, lung cancer has been diagnosed at a late stage, when treatment options are limited and survival low, with the five-year survival of Stage 4 lung cancer below 5%. However, research has shown that low-dose CT scans can detect lung cancer at its earliest stages, when it is most treatable.
The National Lung Cancer Screening Program uses low-dose computed tomography (low-dose CT) scans to look for lung cancer in eligible asymptomatic high-risk people aged between 50 to 70 years.
“The National Lung Cancer Screening Program is Australia’s first new screening program in 20 years and provides a significant step forward in the early detection and diagnosis of lung cancer,” said Professor John Slavotinek, RANZCR President.
The program is an Australian Government initiative in partnership with Cancer Australia and the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO). RANZCR has worked closely with peak industry bodies to train and upskill the radiology sector in the lead up to the program roll out in July 2025. This includes collaborating with the Australian and New Zealand Society of Thoracic Radiology (ANZSTR) to develop extensive radiology resources including essential guidelines and a radiology education program, encompassing face-to-face workshops, on-demand e-modules, and webinars.
Professor Slavotinek says the support and involvement of radiologists is crucial to the initiative’s success as they are providing the low-dose CT scans for participants.“Right from the planning stages, our members have been pivotal in this initiative, volunteering their time and expertise, and drawing upon the latest evidence-based guidelines and diagnostic tools to inform the screening approach,” said Professor Slavotinek.
“As we celebrate the program’s milestone launch, we will continue to support radiologists to facilitate high-quality, effective screening, to improve lung cancer detection and patient outcomes.” Dr Tuan Ha, Dean of the Faculty of Radiation Oncology at RANZCR, commended the dedication of both College’s facultys and ANZSTR, in supporting the development of the NLCSP. “While the Faculty of Radiation Oncology plays a crucial role in clinical care and research, the contribution of the faculty of Clinical Radiology – especially through ANZSTR has been nothing short of exceptional,” said Dr Ha.
“ANZSTR has done incredible work driving the rollout of the National Lung Cancer Screening Program, contributing vital expertise to ensure the program runs smoothly and delivers reliable, high-quality screening across the country.
“Together with radiation oncologists, thoracic radiologists and other specialists, we have fostered a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach that reflects international best practice, incorporating the Pan-Canadian Early Detection of Lung Cancer (PanCan) risk model. This integrated effort helps ensure that the NLCSP is not just a screening program but a comprehensive care pathway that prioritises patient safety and equity—particularly for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.”
Dr Rajiv Rattan, Dean of the Faculty of Clinical Radiology at RANZCR, said the benefits of the NLCSP and its multidisciplinary approach, are far reaching. “The collaborative model not only enhances participant outcomes but also enriches out professional experience, allowing us to learn from and contribute to a broader network of healthcare professionals,” said Dr Rattan.
“The data collected through the NLCSP will enable future research and, with access to new resources, training and the latest research findings, RANZCR members will have many opportunities to further our expertise and contribute to the growing body of knowledge about improving cancer care.”
With the program underway, radiologists are conducting screenings and the College is aware of participants being identified as having lung cancer and subsequently referred for treatment - a testament to the program’s life-saving impact.
“The moment at which screening for lung cancer occurs is the moment when the eyes of Australian radiologists are on these scans. Through this tremendous initiative, we can all be a part of saving the lives of Australians,” said Dr Miranda Siemienowicz, Chair of ANZSTR.
Find out more: Watch a video featuring Dr Miranda Siemienowicz reflecting on launch of the program here.Read more about the program, its development and next steps, in the latest edition of Inside News here.
Get involved: RANZCR and ANZSTR will host interactive NLCSP workshops at the upcoming RANZCR Annual Scientific Meeting in Melbourne (23 – 25 October). These workshops are specifically created for radiologists and radiologist trainees looking to establish familiarity with reporting for the NLCSP. For information visit Lung Cancer Screening Workshop - RANZCR ASM 2025 | The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists