A new lung screening program has been launched in Nova Scotia, aiming to save lives by preventing lung cancer and detecting it at an earlier stage. The program, which includes clinical assessment and computerized tomography (CT) scans, targets individuals at a very high risk of developing lung cancer.
Health and Wellness Minister Michelle Thompson emphasized the significance of the initiative, stating, ‘Cancer touches every Nova Scotian in one way or another, either directly or through friends, family or community members. Fixing healthcare includes improving cancer screening and care. The Lung Screening Program is the latest of many changes across our cancer care services that will help prevent or find cancers earlier, improve outcomes and save lives.’
The program is available for Nova Scotians aged 50 to 74 who have smoked daily for 20 years or more at any point in their lives. They can contact the program to have a nurse assess their personal risk of lung cancer, which will determine if they would benefit from screening with a chest CT scan. Additionally, individuals who reach out to the program will receive information about lung health and, if applicable, smoking cessation supports.
The Lung Screening Program is currently accessible in the central health zone, including Halifax Regional Municipality and West Hants, with plans for expansion across the province over the next two years. Other recent improvements in cancer care services in Nova Scotia include increased funding for community oncology clinics, enhanced communication among oncology providers and patients, and the introduction of advanced radiotherapy technology.
Dr. Helmut Hollenhorst, Senior Medical Director of the Nova Scotia Health Cancer Care Program, highlighted the potential impact of the Lung Screening Program, stating, ‘Lung cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in Nova Scotia and the leading cause of cancer death. The Lung Screening Program will help change the face of lung cancer in this province and transform the conversation from lung cancer to lung health.’
The program also emphasizes the importance of tobacco cessation, as quitting smoking combined with lung cancer screening is expected to reduce the number of deaths from the disease. As part of a comprehensive approach, the Lung Screening Program includes tobacco cessation supports for individuals interested in quitting.
For those interested in accessing the Lung Screening Program, they can do so by calling 1-833-505-LUNG (5864) in the central health zone. The program’s expansion across the province will be implemented over the next two years, signaling a significant step towards improving cancer care and enhancing preventive measures for lung cancer in Nova Scotia.
