Written question WQ95496

The Welsh Government is working with Public Health Wales to determine how best to implement a national targeted lung screening programme in Wales. This work has involved engaging with health boards and learning from the operational pilot in Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board which is due to end in March 2025 when its final evaluation will be published.

The Welsh Cancer Intelligence and Surveillance Unit (WCISU) publishes Official Statistics for cancer incidence, mortality and survival in Wales, this includes the survival rate for lung cancer. The most recent data shows the five-year age-standardised net survival for persons aged 15 to 99 diagnosed between 2016-20 in Wales was 18.3%. Data for 2021 is due to be published in March 2025.

Rapid Diagnostic Centres (RDCs) have been implemented in six health boards and residents from Powys can be referred to neighbouring health boards. RDCs offer GPs another option when they suspect cancer, but the symptoms do not match the referral criteria for suspected cancer referral.

The Welsh Government expects health boards in Wales to apply National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidance regarding the early detection of cancer. The Welsh Government also works with the NHS Executive to implement service change, such as the introduction of Faecal Immunochemistry Testing for colorectal cancer referrals: https://www.gov.wales/sites/default/files/publications/2023-01/new-lower-gastrointestinal-fit-national-optimal-pathway.pdf.