It's good to know

'Get on it early': Neighbours star Ian Smith urges free lung cancer screening

Neighbours star Ian Smith has lent his voice to the It’s Good to Know campaign, encouraging Australians to participate in the free National Lung Cancer Screening Program. 

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Former Neighbours star Ian Smith has lent his voice to the It’s Good to Know campaign, encouraging Australians to participate in the free National Lung Cancer Screening Program. 

The Program can detect lung cancer early, before symptoms start and is free to eligible people aged 50 to 70 with a smoking history. 

Smith, 87, opened up about his personal battle with terminal lung cancer in a recent profile piece with the Herald Sun

Now, he’s using his platform to encourage eligible Australians to take part in free lung screening. 

“Get a check and if there is a problem get on to it early,” he said. “The key is catching it (cancer) early.” 

Figures from February 2026 show that over 60,000 people have already screened for lung cancer since the Program launched in July 2025. 

Over 65% of lung cancers can be successfully treated if found early, and Smith is determined to keep spreading the word. 

“Wouldn’t it be fabulous if we saved someone[’s life] by encouraging them to get checked?” 

If you think you might be eligible for free lung cancer screening, speak to your doctor or healthcare provider today. 

It’s quick, easy and free.  

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