In 2022, lung cancer was the leading cause of cancer death accounting for approximately 22% of all cancer deaths. Lung cancer is usually diagnosed at stage 4 where treatments have a 5 year survival rate of only 5.4%. With screening we can help find lung cancer at an earlier stage where treatment has a better chance of working and reduce the risk of dying from lung cancer. Screening is done with a low dose CT scan for high-risk patients. Here are the steps:
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- Primary care providers refer current or former smokers ages 55-74 who have smoked daily for at least 20 years (not necessarily in a row). Patients can also self-refer by calling the OLSP Team at 905-522-1155 ext. 32115 or scheduling an appointment with the OSLP Clerk here.
- The OLSP Screening Nurse Navigator will conduct a risk assessment to determine eligibility for the program.
- If eligible, the patient will receive the low dose CT scan and current smokers will be offered smoking cessation counselling.
- Once a patient enters into the program, they will be invited for their next screening test.
- If cancer or lung nodules are found, the OLSP will navigate next steps including referral to the Lung Diagnostic Assessment Program and follow-up.
- Actionable incidental findings will be communicated back to the primary care provider with follow-up suggestions. Patients without a primary care provider will receive this follow-up from within the program.
Exclusion criteria are: previous lung cancer, current surveillance for nodules, symptoms of lung cancer (eg hemoptysis, unexplained weight loss) or current life threatening conditions. While lung screening is starting at St. Joseph Hospital as the hub, planning is ongoing to launch additional sites in our region.
Resources for primary care
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- Referral form in pdf form and P&P, OSCAR and Telus
- Recording of recent CME webinar
- SJH patient facing brochure