B.C launches new lung cancer screening program

British Columbia’s health minister says a new ground-breaking program offers hope for all people in B.C. who may be affected by lung cancer, whether that’s themselves, or a loved one.

Adrian Dix announced the launch of a lung cancer screening program for eligible high-risk people at 36 sites across the province.

The sites include Vernon Jubilee Hospital and Kelowna General Hospital.

RELATED: Vernon Jubilee Hospital among sites offering lung cancer screening

Dix told a news conference, one in two people in B.C. will develop cancer in their lifetime.

“And because we’re living longer, we’re going to see more age-related cancer over the next 15 years than ever before,” Dix said.

The minister said lung cancer is most common cause of cancer death in Canada and world wide, primarily affecting people 50 and above, and in B.C., an average of seven people die from lung cancer every day.

Dix stated 70 per cent of lung cancers are currently diagnosed at advanced stages when symptoms are already present, which the new screening program will change.

“BC Cancer’s innovative program will detect lung cancer at an earlier stage, before symptoms are present, allowing for more treatment options and better chance for recovery.”

In the first year of the new program, 10,000 patients will be screened at the 36 sites, with that number increasing to 20,000 in coming years.

Screening will be available at the 36 centres using existing CT scans for those who are between 55 and 74, currently smoking or have previously smoked, and have a smoking history of 20 years or more.

People who meet that criteria are encouraged to call the program for a consultation and risk assessment to determine eligibility.

B.C. currently offers screening programs for breast, cervical and colon cancers, which Dix said has led to more cancers being detected earlier, and increasing survival rates.

Doctor David Byres, president and CEO of the Provincial Health Services Authority, a partner in the program, said he is hopeful about the lives that will be impacted and changed by the new screening program.

“Today is the launch of Canada’s first province-wide lung cancer screening program, and is a true testament and credit to the team at BC Cancer who are so dedicated to to the provision of quality affected care and passionate about reducing the burden of cancer in British Columbia,” said Byres.

Dix said the province will provide $2.9 million annually to operate the program, while BC Cancer will offer $1.93 million, and the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer is providing $800,000 in project funding.