Lung cancer awareness

Bella

If you’ve been suffering symptoms of lung cancer for more than three weeks, seek GP help immediately. Your symptoms are likely not cancer, but if they are, early diagnosis can help save your life and give you the very best chance of survival.

The NHS is raising awareness of lung cancer, and if you have a cough that has lasted more than three weeks and isn’t covid-19, please speak to your GP.

I spoke to Anna, whose persistent cough lead to a rapid assessment and diagnosis of lung cancer. She underwent treatment and is now sharing her story to raise awareness.

Lung cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, with 47,000 people diagnosed in the UK every year.

THE SYMPTOMS:

A persistent cough for three weeks, coughing up blood, persistent breathlessness, unexplained tiredness and weight loss, an ache or pain when breathing or coughing. Contact your GP if you have these symptoms. It’s likely nothing serious, but early detection of cancer saves lives.

WHO IT AFFECTS:

Lung cancer mainly affects older people. It's rare in people younger than 40. More than 4 out of 10 people diagnosed with lung cancer in the UK are aged 75 and older. Although people who have never smoked can develop lung cancer, smoking is the most common cause (accounting for about 72% of cases). 

*For more information, visit nhs.uk