Lung Cancer Screening Starts July 1 – What Brisbane GPs Need to Know

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Lung Cancer Screening Starts July 1 –
What Brisbane GPs Need to Know

The National Lung Cancer Screening Program launches this July, marking a pivotal opportunity for early detection in high-risk Australians. Using a low dose CT scan, the program targets asymptomatic individuals aged 50–70 with significant smoking histories.

After the Scan – What Happens?

Low dose CT results are stratified by risk. Most patients will re-scan at 3–24 months. About 2–3% will require immediate specialist referral.

However, many scans will identify additional findings like:

  • Emphysema
  • Bronchiectasis
  • Interstitial lung disease (ILD)
Refer your patient for a lung cancer screening

Key Eligibility Criteria

  • 30+ pack-year smoking history
  • Current smoker or quit within 10 years
  • Age 50–70
  • No active symptoms of lung cancer
Feature Image Lung screening

How NBST Supports You and Your Patients

NBST is one of the leading respiratory and lung clinics in Brisbane, with expert lung specialists providing:

  • Detailed lung cancer workup and nodule management
  • Lung function testing in North Brisbane (available at our North Lakes and Clayfield locations)
  • Support for smoking-related lung diseases
  • Access to Endobronchial Ultrasound (EBUS)

We also offer respiratory review for findings not requiring urgent action but that warrant monitoring or diagnosis, such as:

Practical Tips for GPs

  • Use validated tools or EMR-based calculators to determine a patient’s pack-year smoking history accurately.
  • Record the patient’s smoking cessation date clearly to confirm eligibility for the screening program.
  • Review structured radiology reports closely for any incidental findings, even when cancer risk is low.
  • Refer for lung function testing when radiologic emphysema or interstitial changes are identified, even in asymptomatic patients.
  • Maintain a low threshold for Respiratory Physician referral in patients with complex findings, ongoing respiratory symptoms, or abnormal pulmonary function.
  • Contact NBST directly to discuss borderline or complex cases—we’re available for clinical support and advice.
Ask us for support
Lung Symptoms | North Brisbane Sleep & Thoracic | North Lakes & Clayfield | Brisbane

Urgent Referrals

If a patient requires urgent assessment, please clearly mark the referral as URGENT.

To expedite priority triaging:

  1. Submit the referral via Medical Objects.

  2. Call our practice immediately on 1300 391 820 to notify our administration team of the urgent submission.