The Welsh Government has announced plans to introduce a national lung cancer screening programme. Starting in 2027, the phased rollout will target people aged 55 to 74 who smoke or have smoked in the past.
Early Detection to Save Lives
This initiative aims to improve early diagnosis and reduce lung cancer deaths—especially in the communities most affected. Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Wales, with smoking as the biggest risk factor.
One of the biggest challenges in treating lung cancer is late diagnosis. Symptoms often don’t appear until the cancer has spread.
How the Programme Will Work
The first screening invitations will go to the oldest people in the eligible age group. The programme will then expand gradually, allowing the NHS to manage demand.
Mobile CT scanning units will be used to reach people across Wales. The programme will also offer support to help participants quit smoking.
Focus on Reducing Health Inequality
Heather Lewis from Public Health Wales (PHW) explained the importance of screening:
“We know that lung cancer is frequently found too late for effective treatment. Screening gives us a crucial window to identify it sooner, when therapies are more likely to succeed.”
PHW also stressed the programme’s potential to reduce health inequalities. People in more deprived areas of Wales face much higher lung cancer mortality rates. Early detection could help close that gap.
Backed by a Successful Pilot
The national programme follows a pilot in the Cwm Taf Morgannwg health board region, where 600 people were screened. Of those, 12 lung cancer cases were found—and two-thirds were caught early, when treatment is most effective.
Broader Health Checks Included
Health Secretary Jeremy Miles confirmed that the screening programme will also check for other lung conditions, such as COPD.
The Welsh Government estimates that the full programme will cost around £13 million per year.
A Victory for Campaigners
Paula Chadwick, Chief Executive of Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation, welcomed the announcement:
“This is a hugely positive step for Wales and one we have long campaigned for. Since the National Screening Committee recommended lung cancer screening, we’ve pushed for rollout across all four nations of the UK.
“Over the past six years, we’ve worked closely with NHS England to boost screening uptake and help diagnose more people earlier. We’re now ready to do the same in Wales and support Public Health Wales in saving lives.”
Wales Lung Cancer Screening: What It Means for You
The Wales lung cancer screening programme is a landmark moment for public health in the country. It offers real hope for catching cancer earlier and reducing the impact of one of Wales’ deadliest diseases.
If you’re aged 55 to 74 and have a history of smoking, you may be eligible once the rollout begins. Stay informed, talk to your GP, and look out for updates from Public Health Wales.ur part in saving lives across the country.”