Keren's story
‘Felt like I dodged a bullet’: Keren’s turning point after lung cancer screen.
Some things are just good to know, particularly when it comes to your health.
When Keren, a retiree from the Fleurieu Peninsula, South Australia, heard about the free National Lung Cancer Screening Program that could detect lung cancer before symptoms, it was hard to pass up the opportunity.
During a routine check-up, Keren’s doctor referred her for the scan and she joined the free program, available to eligible Australians aged 50 to 70 with a smoking history.
“I was scared about the results as I’ve been a smoker for many years,” Keren said. “But I participate in the bowel and breast screening programs, so why not lung screening?”
Launched in July 2025, the Program is Australia’s first new national screening program in almost 20 years. It involves a low-dose CT-scan that takes images of your chest to look for early signs of lung cancer.
“The screening process was quick and easy. I just had to lie down for a few minutes, that was all.”
“I felt like I had dodged a bullet when I received my results,” Keren said.
“The scan showed I had very mild emphysema.”
It was the turning point Keren didn’t see coming; a cancer-free result gave her a new lease on life and the motivation to make positive changes.
With the support of her doctor, Keren made the decision to quit smoking and formed a smoking cessation plan, embracing lifestyle changes to give herself more healthy years with loved ones.
“Already, my blood pressure is back to normal,” she said. “I’m looking forward to more improvements in my health.”
Without the Program, Keren might never have found out about her lung health.
Now, she wants to spread the word about screening and has a clear message for others who might be eligible.
“Don’t be nervous about getting screened.
“At best you can make positive changes to your lifestyle. At worst, you can detect cancer early and have better options for treatment.
“I’m so grateful for lung screening. Go and get it done.”
- Screening