Apollo Cancer Centres (ACCs) have launched India's first-ever LungLife Screening Programme for early detection of lung cancer. The new initiative focuses on lung cancer, which accounts for 5.9% of the total cancer cases and 8.1% of the cancer-related deaths in the country. It aims at early detection, which will ultimately enhance the treatment effectiveness and, therefore, survival rates considerably.

Lung cancer is responsible for the highest number of cancer deaths worldwide, according to GLOBOCAN 2020 data from the International Agency for Research on Cancer, IARC. In 2020, 1.8 million deaths were documented at 18%.

The primary target population for the LungLife Screening Programme is people between the ages of 50 to 80 years with high risks. It involves people with no symptoms but a history of smoking, a family history of lung cancer, and so on. The program has the use of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) as an important tool in early detection that has proven to enhance survival. However, studies indicate that almost 80% of those at risk have never talked to health care providers about screening. This program seeks to create awareness and enhance communication about lung cancer screening with the aim of saving more lives through early intervention.

Harshad, Director Group Oncology & International, Apollo Hospitals, described the programme as a landmark initiative in the hospital’s ongoing efforts to advance oncology care in India. “The LungLife Screening Programme is a testament to our commitment to providing individuals with resources and knowledge to proactively safeguard their health. Apollo Cancer Centres is steadfast in its mission to elevate cancer care standards and drive nationwide collaboration in the fight against lung cancer”, he said.

Dr Sridhar Ravichandran, Consultant Pulmonologist at Apollo Proton Cancer Centre, highlighted the deadly nature of lung cancer but stressed the benefits of early detection. “Using advanced low-dose CT technology, we aim to identify high-risk individuals early, reducing radiation exposure while maximising diagnostic precision. This programme brings renewed hope for better treatment outcomes, particularly for those with smoking histories or genetic predispositions”, he explained.

Dr P.B. Vandana, Pulmonary Medicine Specialist at Apollo Specialty Hospitals, Vanagaram, described the programme as a pivotal step towards addressing the growing burden of lung cancer in India. “Early-stage detection exponentially increases the chances of effective treatment and recovery. The LungLife Screening Programme combines state-of-the-art diagnostic tools with patient safety to ensure accurate and timely interventions”, she said.

Adding to these sentiments, Dr Jebin Roger S, Consultant Pulmonologist at Apollo Cancer Centre, Teynampet, noted the critical role of early detection in improving survival rates. “Lung cancer is often a silent threat, diagnosed only at advanced stages. With this initiative, Apollo is revolutionising lung cancer care by combining precision diagnostics with a patient-centred approach”, he said.