Lung cancer the most commonly diagnosed cancer in New Zealand*, making up 20% of all cancer diagnoses.**
At Astra Radiology, we’re committed to raising awareness about the importance of lung health and encouraging at-risk Australians to take action through early screening and regular check-ups.
*Lung Foundation New Zealand
**Health New Zealand
Breathing is something we rarely think about, until it becomes hard to do.
Every breath fuels the moments that matter most, from shared laughter to quiet reflection. Yet for thousands of New Zealanders, that simple act can be silently threatened by lung cancer long before any symptoms appear.
At Astra Radiology, as part of our ongoing commitment to lung cancer awareness, we believe every breath deserves to be valued. That’s why we offer a range of medical imaging scans that can help detect lung cancer early when it’s most treatable.
While lung cancer can often go unnoticed in its early stages, there are signs worth paying attention to:
If you experience any of these symptoms or are at a higher risk of lung cancer, your GP can refer you for a scan, so you can more clearly understand what’s going on in your lungs.
If you’ve got symptoms or have some of the risk factors, your doctor may refer you for medical imaging. Medical imaging helps your GP to get a better understanding of what is happening in your lungs. Typically for diagnosing lung cancer X-rays, CT scans, MRI or PET scans are used to see if there are any irregularities or growths in your lungs.
What is lung cancer?
Lung cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the lungs, where abnormal cells grow uncontrollably. It is one of the most common and deadliest cancers in Australia, often diagnosed at a late stage due to minimal early symptoms.
What are the key symptoms of lung cancer?
Symptoms to watch for include shortness of breath that doesn’t go away, a persistent cough, chest pain or tightness, coughing up blood, fatigue, voice changes, or recurrent chest infections.
What is a low-dose CT scan, and how does it help in early detection of lung cancer?
A low-dose CT scan is an imaging test that uses radiation to take detailed pictures of the lungs. It can help identify early signs of lung cancer even before symptoms appear, which can lead to timely treatment.
Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora
Cardiac & Respiratory Foundation NZ
Disclaimer: Please note, if you have any questions or reservations about your health, it is always recommended to consult with your healthcare provider, who can address your concerns directly. This is general information, not tailored to a specific individual.
Astra Radiology
For all appointments, or to enquire about an existing appointment, please phone
Cardiac Imaging
