Jeannine's story
Lung screening is a game-changer for rural communities.
Having smoked since high school, Jeannine, 68, had often wondered about her lung health.
So, when her doctor told her she was eligible for a free lung scan through the National Lung Cancer Screening Program, she didn’t hesitate.
The Program offers free low-dose CT scans to eligible Australians aged 50 to 70 with a significant smoking history – an opportunity Jeannine, a pensioner living in Broken Hill, in the far-west region of outback New South Wales was quick to take up.
“It was my doctor’s suggestion,” she said. “But I’d been wondering about my lungs for a while, so it was perfect timing.”
A week later, Jeannine visited her nearest radiology clinic for the scan.
“The scan was so quick and easy, and the staff were wonderful,” she said. “I just laid on the table for a few minutes, and it was done.”
A few days later, Jeannine received the news she’d been hoping for.
“My results came in really quickly. My doctor told me the scan was clear.”
“I must confess, I felt very relieved. As a long-term smoker, I was a bit nervous about what the scan might find.”
Jeannine says taking part in the Program gave her clarity and peace of mind – something thousands of Aussies have already experienced since the program launched in July 2025.
“It really is good to know, no matter what the results are,” she said. “If something is found early, there are better treatment options.”
Jeannine also wants to highlight the importance of early detection for those living in rural and remote areas. Lung cancer is more common among Australians in rural and remote areas.
“Unlike in major cities, people in regional communities don’t have a variety of choices for healthcare,” she said. “It’s really important that we find and treat cancer early.”
“Everyone who thinks they might be eligible should speak to their doctor about the free National Lung Cancer Screening Program.”
- Screening