Lung cancer screening in Australia: Progress or procrastination?: There is progress internationally with lung cancer screening but far slower headway in Australia

Abstract

Lung cancer is the fourth leading cause of death and kills more Australians than colon and breast cancer combined. It has a 14% 5-year survival rate as most patients present with incurable disease. The number of years of potential life lost to lung cancer in Australia is estimated to be 58 450, similar to that of colorectal and breast cancer combined. Primary prevention remains crucial and will reduce future lung cancer deaths, but the majority of lung cancer deaths are now occurring in former smokers who remain at elevated lifetime risk of lung cancer.