Monaco is taking a proactive step in the fight against lung cancer by launching a screening campaign aimed at residents over 50 who are heavy smokers and want to quit…

This new initiative, set to begin in November as part of the No Tobacco Month, is spearheaded by the Department of Social Affairs and Health in an effort to tackle one of the country’s leading health concerns. With one of the highest age-standardised prevalence rates (ASPR) of lung cancer in the world, 119 cases per 100,000 people, Monaco’s government is focusing on early detection and prevention.

The campaign will target social security beneficiaries in the Principality who meet the criteria, providing them with the opportunity to undergo a low-dose lung scan. This innovative screening method uses high-performance scanners that can detect tumours as small as half a centimetre, without exposing patients to high doses of radiation. Christophe Robino, the government advisor and Minister for Social Affairs and Health, highlighted the significance of this approach, noting that “detecting and identifying potential tumours at such an early stage significantly improves prognosis.”

Participants in the screening campaign will receive a letter of invitation and will be able to book an appointment at the Monaco Screening Centre. The initiative serves a dual purpose: it encourages heavy smokers to quit while providing them with preventive care against a disease that is highly prevalent among older age groups. For women, the highest lung cancer rates occur in the 75-79 age group, while for men, it’s between 85-89.

By launching this campaign, Monaco aims to reduce its lung cancer rates through early intervention, offering hope to many who may otherwise face late-stage diagnosis.