Low-dose CT screening for high-risk individuals — giving you the best chance of early detection when treatment is most effective. Early diagnosis saves lives.
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in Australia and worldwide. The critical challenge: approximately 70% of lung cancers are not diagnosed until Stage III or IV — when five-year survival rates fall below 10%. Yet when detected at Stage I, survival exceeds 85%.
Low-dose CT (LDCT) screening is proven to reduce lung cancer mortality by up to 24% in high-risk populations. Our programme follows evidence-based protocols to identify lung nodules early, characterise them accurately using Lung-RADS scoring, and guide appropriate follow-up — minimising unnecessary procedures while maximising detection.
"If you are in the high-risk category, annual LDCT screening is one of the most powerful tools available to protect your life. A 5-minute scan could make all the difference."
All screen-detected findings are reviewed by our multidisciplinary lung tumour board — including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, oncologists, and radiologists — to ensure every patient receives the optimal management pathway.
Current Australian and international guidelines recommend LDCT screening for individuals meeting the following high-risk criteria.
Age 50–80 years
Current smoker or former smoker (quit within the past 15 years)
Smoking history of 20 pack-years or more
Family history of lung cancer in a first-degree relative
Occupational exposure to asbestos, silica, or radon
Existing lung conditions (COPD, pulmonary fibrosis) that increase cancer risk
Previous lung cancer treated with curative intent (surveillance)
Incidentally discovered lung nodule requiring monitoring
Clear, compassionate guidance through every step — from initial risk assessment to diagnosis and beyond.
Comprehensive review of smoking history, family history, occupational exposures, and symptoms. Shared decision-making discussion about the benefits and limitations of LDCT screening.
A quick, painless 5-minute CT scan using a low radiation dose — no contrast, no preparation required. Our radiologists report using standardised Lung-RADS classification.
All screen-detected nodules are reviewed at our weekly multidisciplinary lung tumour board. You receive clear, personalised communication of results and any recommended next steps.
Depending on Lung-RADS category, we arrange CT surveillance, PET scanning, bronchoscopic biopsy, or surgical referral — with full coordination and support throughout.
Finding a lung nodule is not a diagnosis of cancer — the vast majority are benign. Our team guides you through every step with clarity and care.
Book a Screening AssessmentLow-risk nodules are monitored with repeat LDCT at 3–12 month intervals as per Lung-RADS protocol. Most nodules remain stable and require no further intervention.
For suspicious nodules, a combined PET-CT scan assesses metabolic activity to help differentiate benign from malignant lesions before committing to an invasive procedure.
Tissue sampling using navigational bronchoscopy, EBUS, or CT-guided percutaneous biopsy to obtain a histological diagnosis with minimal invasiveness.
For confirmed or highly suspicious malignancy, we coordinate urgent referral to our thoracic surgical partners for VATS lobectomy or segmentectomy as appropriate.
For advanced disease, we coordinate with medical and radiation oncology via our lung tumour board to ensure seamless initiation of systemic therapy or SBRT.
Currently, a national lung cancer screening programme is being rolled out in Australia. Your specialist can advise on current Medicare eligibility and the latest funding arrangements. A GP referral maximises your Medicare rebate for the associated consultation.
An LDCT delivers approximately 1–2 mSv of radiation — equivalent to a few months of natural background radiation. This is significantly less than a standard diagnostic chest CT (7–8 mSv). The radiation risk is far outweighed by the benefit of early detection in eligible high-risk individuals.
Yes — that's exactly the point of screening. Lung cancer in its most treatable early stages usually causes no symptoms at all. Waiting for symptoms often means waiting until the cancer has spread. Screening is designed for people who feel well but carry high-risk factors.
Lung-RADS is a standardised reporting system (categories 0–4X) used to communicate the risk level of any nodules detected. Categories 1–2 indicate very low or low risk; categories 3–4X indicate increasing concern and trigger more intensive follow-up. Your pulmonologist will explain your result in plain language.
Annual LDCT is recommended for high-risk individuals who continue to meet eligibility criteria. The frequency of surveillance for detected nodules is determined by Lung-RADS category and may be more frequent in the first 1–2 years. Your pulmonologist will create a personalised surveillance schedule.
If you or someone you love meets the high-risk criteria, don't wait. Book your lung cancer screening assessment today.