Free ‘Max up’ Quit Smoking Trial Expands to Northern Queensland, Offering Lung Cancer Screening
Cairns And Townsville Residents Now Have Access To A Groundbreaking Initiative Aimed At helping Smokers Quit And Detect Lung cancer Early. The University Of Queensland-Led ‘Max Up’ Trial, Which offers Free nicotine Replacement Therapies And Lung Cancer Screening, Has Expanded To North And Far North Queensland.
Queensland’s Smoke-Free Push Gains Momentum
The ‘Max Up’ trial, already underway in southern Queensland, is extending its reach to Cairns and Townsville. This expansion provides crucial resources for individuals aged 50 to 80 who are ready to quit smoking.Associate Professor Henry Marshall from UQ’s Thoracic Research Center emphasizes the significance of this move.
“This Expansion Means People Who Want To Quit Smoking Can Now Participate In The trial, Get Scanned, And Access Nicotine Replacement Therapies In Cairns or Townsville,” Dr. Marshall stated.
The Goal Is To Screen 1000 People Across Queensland,Continuing Until This Target Is Achieved.Participants can access free nicotine patches, gum, or lozenges, along with a complimentary CT scan of their lungs, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.
The Dual Benefit: Quitting Smoking and Early Detection
Research indicates a significant reduction in lung cancer mortality through combined smoking cessation and screening programs. A U.S. study highlighted by Dr. Marshall revealed a 38% decrease in the risk of dying from lung cancer when these strategies are combined. Early detection via CT scans is critical.
“A CT Scan can Pick Up Small, Curable Lung Cancers That Are Otherwise Undetected Because They’re Not Causing Any Symptoms,” Dr. Marshall explained. The Scan Is Fast, Painless, And Doesn’t Involve Needles.
Lung Cancer Frequently enough Develops Without Noticeable Symptoms Until It Reaches Advanced Stages. Early detection through CT scans offers a greater chance for successful treatment.
Did You Know? According to the American Lung Association, when lung cancer is caught at a localized stage, the five-year survival rate is 63%. However, only 16% of lung cancer cases are diagnosed at this early stage.
How To Participate In The ‘Max Up’ Trial
Queenslanders interested in joining the ‘Max Up’ trial can contact Quitline on 13 7848 (13 QUIT) or register via Quit HQ. Participants receive free nicotine replacement therapies and, if eligible, a free CT scan of their lungs.
Dr.Marshall highlights that this trial serves as a crucial precursor to a National Lung Cancer Screening Program. The Goal Is To Integrate Lung Cancer Screening seamlessly With Support For Smoking Cessation.
Understanding Lung Cancer Statistics and Smoking Cessation
Lung cancer remains a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. According to the World health Organization (WHO), tobacco use is responsible for over 8 million deaths each year, including approximately 1.3 million deaths from second-hand smoke exposure.
Quitting Smoking Offers Ample Health Benefits, Irrespective of How Long Someone Has smoked. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that within 2 to 5 years of quitting, the risk of stroke can reduce to that of a non-smoker.
Pro Tip: Combining nicotine replacement therapy with counseling or support groups can significantly increase your chances of successfully quitting smoking.
The Long-Term Impact of Quitting
Dr.Marshall Underscores The Extensive Health Benefits Of Quitting Smoking, Noting It As A cause Of Over 40 Diseases And Conditions. He Acknowledges That Quitting can Be Challenging but Emphasizes The significant Gains In Life Expectancy And Quality Of Life.
“We’ve Got The Door Open Ready For People To Keep Coming Back,Engaging With Quitline’s Programs And Counselors,And Keep Getting Free Nicotine Replacement Therapy,” he Said.
The ‘Max up’ trial is backed by the Medical Research Future Fund, the University Of Queensland, Queensland Health, Cancer Council Australia, And Lung Foundation Australia. This initiative shows a united front against lung cancer.
Quit smoking Resources Available
thinking about quitting smoking? Free help is available to support you on your journey to a smoke-free life.Contact Quitline and utilize the resources available through the ‘Max Up’ trial.
what strategies have you found most helpful in quitting smoking, or supporting someone else to quit? Share your insights in the comments below.
Additional Resources for quitting Smoking
Explore these resources for support and information on quitting smoking:
- Quitline: 13 7848 (13 QUIT)
- Quit HQ: Online resources and support
- Cancer Council Australia: www.cancer.org.au
- Lung Foundation Australia: www.lungfoundation.com.au
Understanding Lung Cancer Screening
| Screening Method | Description | benefits | Risks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low-Dose CT Scan | uses X-rays to create detailed images of the lungs. | Detects small lung cancers early, improving treatment outcomes. | Exposure to radiation, potential for false positives. |
| Sputum Cytology | Examines phlegm under a microscope for cancer cells. | non-invasive. | Low sensitivity, not effective for early detection. |
frequently Asked Questions About the Quit Smoking Trial
- Who is eligible for the free quit smoking trial in Queensland?
- What does the ‘max Up’ quit smoking trial offer?
- Where is the quit smoking trial currently available?
- How can I participate in the quit smoking study?
- Why is lung cancer screening critically important for smokers?
Queensland smokers aged between 50 and 80, who register with Quitline, are eligible for the free quit smoking trial.
The ‘Max Up’ trial offers free nicotine replacement therapies (patches, gum, or lozenges) and a free CT scan of the lungs for eligible participants.
The quit smoking trial is available in areas of southern Queensland, and has recently expanded to North and Far North Queensland, including Cairns and Townsville.
Queenslanders can participate by calling Quitline on 13 7848 (13 QUIT) or self-referring through Quit HQ to join the study.
Lung cancer screening with a CT scan can detect small, curable lung cancers early, frequently enough before symptoms appear, improving the chances of effective treatment.
Are you ready to take the first step towards a smoke-free life? Share this article with someone who could benefit from this program and leave your comments below!
