National Lung Cancer Screening Program

A Positive Step Toward Better Lung Health

At QuitHero, our focus is simple: supporting your better health outcomes through early detection and helping you reduce future health risks.

The National Lung Cancer Screening Program is an important step forward in protecting the health of Australians with a history of smoking. By identifying potential concerns early—often before symptoms appear—screening gives you and your healthcare provider the opportunity to take action sooner, when it matters most.

This program isn’t just about diagnosis. It’s about giving you clarity, confidence, and more control over your health.   You may be eligible for a free scan and it could save your life

 

Speak to your doctor or healthcare provider about the program today. 

www.lungcancerscreen.org.au


Who is eligible for lung cancer screening?

You may be eligible if you:

  • Are aged 50 to 70 years

  • Have no symptoms of lung cancer

  • Currently smoke, or quit within the past 10 years

  • Have a smoking history of at least 30 pack-years

Your healthcare provider will confirm your eligibility and help guide you through the process.

Once eligible, you can continue screening even if you remain smoke-free, until you:

  • Turn 71 years old, or

  • Have scan results that require further clinical follow-up

Importantly, you do not need to quit smoking to participate, although quitting remains one of the most powerful ways to improve your long-term health.


What is a ‘pack-year’?

A pack-year is a simple way of measuring lifetime smoking exposure.

For example:

  • 1 pack per day for 30 years = 30 pack-years

  • 2 packs per day for 15 years = 30 pack-years

This helps healthcare providers assess your screening eligibility and overall lung health risk.


What to expect from the screening process

Lung cancer screening uses a low-dose CT scan, which is quick, safe, and non-invasive.

The process includes:

1. Speaking with your healthcare provider
They’ll review your smoking history and confirm whether screening is appropriate for you.

2. Getting a referral for a scan
If eligible, you’ll receive a request form and instructions on where to book your scan.

3. Completing the scan
The scan takes around 10–15 minutes, involves no needles, and simply captures detailed images of your lungs.

4. Receiving your results and next steps
Your healthcare provider will receive your results and guide you on whether follow-up scans or further checks are needed.

If everything looks clear, you’ll typically be invited to screen again in two years.


Even if you’re not eligible, your lung health still matters

Not everyone will meet the program’s eligibility criteria. This may include people who:

  • Are younger than 50 or older than 70

  • Quit smoking more than 10 years ago

  • Have smoked less than 30 pack-years

  • Or have never smoked cigarettes

However, this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take your lung health seriously.

If you have a history of smoking—even if it was years ago—or have concerns about your breathing or lung health, we encourage you to speak with your healthcare provider. Screening outside the national program may still be appropriate based on your individual circumstances.

At QuitHero, we believe proactive care and informed decisions are key to protecting your future health.

Speak to your doctor or healthcare provider about other scan services. 

www.lungscreen.com


Why early detection makes a difference

Lung cancer often develops silently, without obvious symptoms in the early stages. Screening helps detect changes sooner, which can:

  • Improve treatment options

  • Support better health outcomes

  • Provide reassurance and clarity

  • Help you stay in control of your health journey

Early detection isn’t about creating worry—it’s about creating opportunity.


Supporting your health, every step of the way

Whether you currently smoke, have recently quit, or stopped years ago, taking steps to check and protect your lung health is a positive and empowering decision.

At QuitHero, we’re here to support you—not just in quitting smoking, but in helping you take meaningful steps toward a healthier future.

If you have a history of smoking, consider speaking with your healthcare provider about lung cancer screening. It’s a simple step that can make a powerful difference.

 

Back to blog