The NHS say three types of cough could be a warning sign of lung cancer (stock image) (Image: Flavia Morlachetti via Getty Images)
With this in mind, we’ve decided to take a look at the possible symptoms of lung cancer can help people recognise when to seek medical advice. Eight weeks ago, the NHS used an Instagram post marking World Lung Cancer Day to highlight the warning signs and urge anyone experiencing them to contact their GP.
The caption stated: “If you notice any of these signs and symptoms, contact your GP.
“It could be nothing serious, but early diagnosis and treatment of cancer can save lives.”
The indicators the post encouraged people to watch for included a cough persisting three weeks or longer, a continuous cough that deteriorates with time, repeated chest infections, and coughing up blood.
It is similarly crucial to recognise an ache or discomfort when breathing or coughing, ongoing breathlessness or exhaustion, and an appetite loss or unexplained weight reduction.
Between 33,000 and 35,000 individuals in the UK succumb to lung cancer annually. According to Cancer Research UK, lung cancer represents the single largest contributor to cancer-related mortality in the UK, responsible for approximately 21% – or 1 in 5 – of all cancer fatalities.
This equates to roughly 90 individuals perishing from the illness every single day throughout the UK. Between 48,000 and 50,000 new lung cancer cases are diagnosed across the UK annually.
According to Cancer Research UK, roughly 79% of lung cancer cases could be prevented, with smoking remaining the primary risk factor.
Dame Esther Rantzen died from lung cancer this week after a three-year battle (Image: Dave Benett, Dave Benett/Getty Images for Women of the Year)
Within the UK, detecting lung cancer relies on spotting warning signs at an early stage, supported by an expanding national targeted screening programme.
The UK utilises a Targeted Lung Health Check (TLHC) approach rather than a universal population-wide screening system. Present eligibility includes people aged 55 to 74 who are registered with a GP and are current or former smokers.
A nurse or healthcare professional carries out a telephone or in-person risk assessment, asking about medical background, lifestyle habits, and respiratory symptoms.
Those identified as high risk are offered a low-dose CT scan. These scans are often performed in mobile community units (including supermarket car parks) or nearby hospitals.
Results arrive within four weeks. If abnormalities or nodules are detected, further tests or immediate specialist referrals are organised without delay.
The expansion throughout NHS England is progressing steadily, with similar targeted screening programmes being rolled out across Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
