Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in Ontario — but when it’s caught early, treatment is more likely to work. The Ontario Lung Cancer Screening Program (OLSP) uses a quick, low-dose CT scan to screen high-risk individuals before symptoms appear. It’s simple, non-invasive, and proven to reduce the risk of dying from lung cancer by 20%.​

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Who Should Get Screened?

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You may be eligible for free screening if you:

• Are 55 to 80 years old

• Are a current or former daily smoker

• Smoked cigarettes for at least 20 years total (does not need to be continuous)

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What Is the Test?

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The screening uses Low-Dose Computed Tomography (LDCT) — a special type of CT scan that takes detailed images of your lungs using a very low dose of radiation.

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• It’s fast, painless, and doesn’t require needles or dye.

• It can detect lung cancer early, when it’s more treatable.

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Screening is done at St. Joseph’s Healthcare in Hamilton, but other locations across Ontario are also available.

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How to Enroll

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You can join the program in two ways:

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• Self-enroll by calling the screening centre:​ 905-522-1155 ext. 32115

• Self book at the Hamilton site with the link below

  • Select "Thoracic", then "St. Joe's Ontario Lung Screening Self-Referral Program"

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• Ask your doctor to fill out and send a referral form for the Ontario Lung Screening Program (OLSP)​​​​​​​

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How This Program Helps

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Benefits of Lung Cancer Screening:

 

• Finds lung cancer at an early stage

• Can reduce the risk of death from lung cancer

• Gives you peace of mind about your lung health

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