Nationwide Lung Cancer Screening Expands UK, Australia, Australia Regional Programs

Multiple lung cancer screening initiatives worldwide are emphasizing early detection to reduce mortality among high-risk populations. A modeling study suggests biennial CT lung cancer screening starting at age 50, followed by annual screening at 60, can maintain most benefits of annual screening while reducing the number of screenings and related harms, particularly for moderate-risk individuals. In Australia, the newly launched National Lung Cancer Screening Program offers free low-dose CT screening to eligible individuals aged 50 to 70 with a history of heavy smoking, with regional providers like High St Xray and Xplore Radiology facilitating access and encouraging early screening. England's NHS Lung Cancer Screening Programme has invited millions for lung health checks and low-dose CT scans, diagnosing thousands of cancers early, and plans full rollout by 2029/2030, supported by clinical leadership roles to ensure quality. In New Zealand, a free lung screening pilot targets smokers and ex-smokers aged 55 to 74, aiming to catch cancer early and save lives. These programs collectively highlight a global shift toward accessible, risk-adapted lung cancer screening to improve survival through early diagnosis.