Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has launched Lung Cancer Screening in the fight against lung cancer.
The screening is a straight-forward way to gain peace of mind for anyone aged from 55 to 74 who has ever smoked.
No matter how long ago someone may have stubbed out their last cigarette, and regardless of how heavy or light a smoker they have been, the risk of lung cancer remains.
Early detection is crucial: 80% of lung cancers found through the screening programme have been at stage 1 or stage 2, compared to 30% without this kind of intervention.
GPs have begun writing to individuals aged between 55 to 74, who have ever smoked, to invite them to take part in the screening.
The screening involves an initial phone conversation to check eligibility followed by a further telephone appointment with a healthcare professional which will focus on breathing, overall lung health, lifestyle, and family history. If necessary, the next step will be referral for a low dose, painless CT scan at a mobile scanner, parked in a convenient place.
Speaking about the launch of the programme, Dr Mark Watson, Respiratory Consultant at Hampshire Hospitals, says: “This screening programme is a vital weapon in the fight against lung cancer and other respiratory diseases.
“For many, lung cancer presents late due to a lack of symptoms; however, the Lung Cancer Screening aims to address this by picking up early cancers.
“If caught early enough, lung cancer can be treated successfully.
“Even a light smoker who gave up decades ago could be at risk.”
Patients outside of the age group who are concerned about their symptoms should still contact a health care professional especially if: coughing up blood; experiencing a persistent cough or change to a normal cough; suffering unexplained tiredness or weight loss; aches or pain when breathing or coughing, or appetite loss.
Those people eligible will be sent invitation letters. More information can be found here.
The message is clear: health issues cannot be worried away; have the health check and get peace of mind or receive early treatment and the best possible chance of fighting any problems.
The Lung Cancer Screening Programme is part of a nationwide programme that has been underway since 2019. Hampshire Hospitals is working in partnership with Medispace to deliver the screening.
