Public Health Wales welcomes plans for a national lung screening programme, which will enable earlier diagnosis and treatment of cancers and ultimately save lives.

The Welsh Government’s decision to introduce screening for current and former smokers aged 55-74 will be rolled out in phases, with those at the upper end of the eligible age range being invited first. The first participants are expected to be invited for screening in 2027.

Heather Lewis, Consultant in Public Health for Public Health Wales, said:

“Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in Wales. Too often it is diagnosed late because it may not cause symptoms in its early stages. Screening gives us a chance to find it early, before symptoms appear.”