Why Early Assessment Matters

Lung cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related death in Australia, largely because it’s often diagnosed late.
Symptoms such as a chronic cough, unexplained breathlessness, chest pain, fatigue, or weight loss can develop slowly and may be attributed to other conditions.
A proactive approach - even when symptoms seem mild - allows for timely diagnosis and treatment planning.

In addition to cancer detection, early respiratory assessment can uncover other chronic conditions like emphysema, COPD, or interstitial lung disease (ILD), enabling earlier management and better quality of life.

Using Screening as a Starting Point for the Conversation

With the National Lung Cancer Screening Program introduced in July 2025, there’s growing awareness around the benefits of lung imaging and early detection.
However, the screening program is only one part of the broader picture, and it applies only to a specific group of asymptomatic, high-risk individuals.

For many patients, the best approach is still a GP-led assessment followed by respiratory testing or specialist review when symptoms persist or risk factors exist, even outside formal screening eligibility.

Learn More about the National Lung Screening Program

When to Consider Further Investigation

Referral for respiratory assessment or lung function testing may be appropriate when patients experience:

• A cough lasting longer than six weeks
• Progressive shortness of breath or reduced exercise tolerance
• Recurrent chest infections
• Unexplained fatigue or weight changes
• Abnormal chest imaging results

Early testing can help differentiate between asthma, COPD, infection, or more complex thoracic disease - and provides valuable data for guiding treatment decisions.

How NBST Supports GPs and Patients

At North Brisbane Sleep & Thoracic (NBST), our respiratory physicians provide comprehensive testing and management for patients across North Lakes, Clayfield, and the greater Brisbane area.

Our services include:

• Lung function testing – spirometry, diffusion studies, and lung volumes
• Thoracic and respiratory specialist consultations
• Diagnostic evaluation for chronic cough, COPD, ILD, and other conditions
• Endobronchial Ultrasound (EBUS) and interventional diagnostics (coordinated as required)
• Sleep and breathing assessments for related sleep-disordered breathing concerns

All results are communicated promptly to referring GPs, ensuring coordinated, evidence-based care.

Encouraging Patients to Take Lung Symptoms Seriously

For patients, it’s important to recognise that persistent respiratory symptoms are not “just part of getting older.”
Even mild breathlessness, ongoing cough, or chest discomfort should prompt a conversation with a GP.
Simple testing can often clarify the cause and lead to effective management.

Lung Cancer Awareness Month is not only about screening, it’s about not overlooking the early signs.
By encouraging patients to report persistent symptoms and referring for diagnostic testing when needed, GPs play a vital role in improving outcomes for lung and respiratory disease.

NBST remains committed to supporting both clinicians and patients with accurate diagnostics, specialist assessment, and compassionate care throughout Brisbane.