What is Lung Cancer?

Lung cancer is a serious disease and one of the leading causes of cancer deaths in Australia, often because it’s found too late. It’s the fifth most common cancer in the country, with about 1 in 20 Australians diagnosed by age 85.

Lung cancer starts when a tumour forms in one or both lungs, usually in the airways (bronchi) or lung tissue. This is called primary lung cancer. Sometimes, cancer spreads to the lungs from other parts of the body—like the breast, bowel, or prostate. This is known as secondary lung cancer or metastasis.

The good news? If lung cancer is found early, treatment is much more likely to be successful.

What Are some of the Symptoms?

Lung cancer doesn’t always cause symptoms early on. But here are some signs to watch out for:

· A cough that doesn’t go away or gets worse

· Coughing up blood

· Chest pain and /or shoulder pain

· Shortness of breath

· Hoarseness

· Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite

· Feeling tired all the time

· Recurrent chest infections

If you notice any of these symptoms—especially if you’re a current or former smoker—see your GP as soon as possible.

When Should You Seek Medical Advice?

Don’t wait until symptoms get worse. If you’ve been a smoker or are over 50 and feel something isn’t right with your breathing or chest, talk to your doctor. Early action can save your life.

Who Can Get the Free Lung Cancer Screening?

The new Lung Cancer Screening Program starts in July 2025 and is available to people who:

· Are 50 to 70 years old, and

· Have no symptoms or signs that suggest lung cancer and

· Smoke tobacco cigarettes or have a history of cigarette smoking (having quit within 10 years) and

· Have a history of tobacco cigarette smoking of at least 30 pack-years (for example, a pack a day for 30 years, or 2 packs a day for 15 years)

Eligible people can be referred for a low-dose CT scan—a simple, painless scan that can spot signs of lung cancer early, even before symptoms appear.