Discover how your primary care team can play a greater role in identifying and supporting patients eligible for lung cancer screening.
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Lung cancer accounts for nearly 1 in 4 cancer deaths in Canada — more than any other cancer.
Early detection improves survival outcomes and reduces the burden of late-stage treatment costs.
Primary care providers are often the first point of contact for lung cancer screening conversations. They play a critical role in identifying eligible patients, supporting follow-up on screening results, and guiding next steps toward early treatment.
Unlike broad age-based screening programs, lung cancer screening targets individuals at highest risk based on age and smoking history.
Because eligibility relies on these precise factors, primary care teams play a vital role in identifying qualifying patients. Proactive, patient-focused conversations ensure high-risk individuals receive timely screening — driving earlier detection and improving survival outcomes.
Each province sets its own eligibility criteria, which typically include age and smoking history. Explore the map to find out what’s available in your province.
Click on a province below to access provincial lung cancer screening eligibility criteria.
Supporting your patients with lung cancer screening starts with the right tools.
We’ve developed the following resources to help your primary care team assess tobacco exposure and streamline screening referrals.
An evidence-based guide to help primary care teams accurately assess tobacco exposure, support shared decision-making, and streamline lung cancer screening referrals — ensuring equitable care for every patient.
Once you’ve identified a high-risk patient, what comes next? This reference guide walks primary care teams through the shared decision-making process for lung cancer screening eligibility, with practical conversation aids for both eligible and ineligible patients.
Find out if lung cancer screening is recommended for you or your patient using the Lung Health Foundation’s risk calculator.
Your answers are confidential and no personal data is stored.
Smoking is the leading risk factor for lung cancer.
Free, confidential support is available to all Canadians through the national quitline at 1-866-366-3667, where patients can connect with a coach in their region.
Provincial and territorial resources are also available.
