As the Lunar New Year approaches, in addition to preparing for a fresh start, people are encouraged to take proactive steps for their health by scheduling the government-funded lung cancer screening available every two years. Low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) of the chest is internationally recognized as an effective tool for early lung cancer detection. The Health Promotion Administration urges eligible individuals to participate regularly.

With an aging population and lifestyle factors such as smoking, lung cancer has ranked first for both incidence and mortality among cancers in Taiwan for many years. Early-stage lung cancer often shows no obvious symptoms, leading many patients to seek medical care only after the disease has progressed. According to cancer registry data, the five-year survival rate for stage I lung cancer is about 90%, while that for stage IV drops to around 10%, highlighting the importance of early detection.

Based on domestic and international evidence, Taiwan has implemented a free lung cancer screening program targeting high-risk groups, including individuals with a family history of lung cancer or heavy smoking. Eligible citizens with national health insurance coverage can receive an LDCT scan every two years at no cost.

By the end of 2025, more than 270,000 people nationwide had received lung cancer screening, identifying over 3,000 confirmed cases. Approximately 80% of these were detected at an early stage, demonstrating the effectiveness of screening in improving treatment outcomes.

As the new year begins, prioritizing health is one of the best gifts to oneself and one's family. Scheduling lung cancer screening in advance allows everyone to welcome the new year with greater peace of mind.