HEALTH bosses are stressing that finding lung cancer early, like other cancers, makes it more treatable.
Research commissioned by the NHS and Public Health England found almost half of people do now know that a persistent cough for more than three weeks can be a lung cancer symptom.
Two thirds of people would not make an appointment with their GP if they had a cough lasting three weeks or more and had tested negative for coronavirus.
Other symptoms of lung cancer can be persistent breathlessness, coughing up blood, unexplained tiredness and weight loss or a pain when breathing or coughing.
Dr Edwina Gallagher, from the local GP-led clinical commissioning group, said: “If you have a new, continuous cough, it is important to get tested for coronavirus and seek medical attention if needed.
“If your cough has lasted for more than three weeks you should contact your GP. Whilst it is probably nothing serious, it could be a sing of lung cancer and finding cancer earlier makes it more treatable.”
The NHS has remained open and available to patients throughout the Covid-19 pandemic although GP practices have been operating differently to ensure the safety of their patients and staff.
Patients can still contact their GP practice online or by phone.
For more information on lung cancer including causes, treatment and prevention, visit https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/lung-cancer
