2024-25 Annual report

Expanding lung cancer screening

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Canada, with 70 per cent of cases diagnosed at an advanced stage. Building on six years of work with provinces and territories, CPAC continued its efforts this year to scale up lung cancer screening programs to reach those at highest risk.

With CPAC’s support, all 10 provinces have taken steps toward implementing organized lung cancer screening and six currently offer lung screening. British Columbia stands as a model of success, having implemented lung cancer screening across 36 sites in 2022. Remarkably, 74 per cent of cases diagnosed through the program are at early stages, when cure is possible, marking a dramatic improvement over typical late-stage diagnoses and underscoring the screening program’s potential to reduce mortality and healthcare burden through early detection. Alberta and Newfoundland and Labrador are expanding similar successful pilot projects to move towards full province-wide programs.

A focus on equity

Equity has been a central focus in CPAC’s approach to lung cancer screening. A new lung screening pilot in Newfoundland and Labrador includes a collaboration with the Miawpukek First Nation in Conne River, which is improving access for a population that has historically faced barriers to early detection services.

In Nova Scotia, a community-informed lung screening program was launched this year with extensive engagement from diverse populations to ensure accessibility and equity. This inclusive approach helps ensure that screening programs reach all communities, including those that have been traditionally underserved.

Go to the next story: Strengthening cancer screening through innovation and equity