B.C. offers new lung cancer screening program

The B.C. government has announced a new lung cancer screening program, the first of its kind in Canada

The target population for the new program will be adults aged 55 to 74 who smoke or have a heavy smoking history, with the first scans expected by spring 2022.

Health Minister Adrian Dix says about 3,300 people in B.C. will be diagnosed with lung cancer this year and through early detection with the new program, survival rates will dramatically improve.

“Similar to our other cancer screening programs, British Columbia is leading the way. We are proud to be the first province in Canada to establish a lung cancer screening program,” Dix said.

It is anticipated about 300 people will be diagnosed each year through the program.

“At a time when we are dealing with the challenges of COVID-19, it’s easy to forget that many families around the province are grappling with a cancer diagnosis. Cancer doesn’t wait for global pandemics, and we know that early detection can save lives,” said Premier John Horgan. “Our new lung cancer screening program will mean more treatment options, faster recovery and better outcomes for people around the province. It’s part of our work to keep people safe and healthy – no matter what they’re dealing with.”

Horgan said the new screening program supports other recent actions the government has taken to invest in early cancer diagnosis and treatment, including the addition of regional cancer centres at the second Surrey Hospital and Burnaby Hospital, and the expansion and investment in BC Cancer centres throughout the province with new state-of-the-art PET/CT scanners in Kelowna and Victoria.

“More people die of lung cancer than colon, breast and prostate cancers combined. With the new lung cancer screening program, we will have the opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of thousands of British Columbians, thanks to early detection and intervention,” said Benoit Morin, president and chief executive officer, Provincial Health Services Authority.

Facts about lung cancer

• Six British Columbians die of lung cancer each day
• Lung cancer is the most common cause of cancer death in Canada and worldwide
• Lung cancer is the third most-common cancer in males and the second most-common cancer in females
• Lung cancer primarily affects people aged 50 years and older
• 70 per cent of all lung cancers are currently diagnosed at an advanced stage, and when symptoms are already present.