Lung cancer signs and symptoms - what to be aware of

This Lung Cancer Awareness Month (November), people in the Black Country are being reminded of the signs and symptoms of lung cancer.

Lung cancer is one of the most common and serious types of cancer. Most cases are caused by smoking, although people who have never smoked can also develop the condition.

There are usually no signs or symptoms in the early stages of lung cancer, but many people with the condition eventually develop symptoms. These include: 

Many of these symptoms can also be caused by other medical conditions, however, finding lung cancer sooner can make it easier to treat. If you have any symptoms you are concerned about, please contact your GP practice.

Dr Ananta Dave, Chief Medical Officer for NHS Black Country ICB, said: “November is lung cancer awareness month which is the perfect opportunity to familiarise yourself with the signs and symptoms of lung cancer. 

“Symptoms can differ for each person, however they often include a long-standing cough that gets worse, coughing up blood, persistent breathlessness, continuing tiredness or lack of energy, and an unexplained loss of weight or appetite.

“In some cases, lung cancer doesn’t cause noticeable symptoms until it’s spread through the lungs or into other parts of the body. That’s why it’s important to contact your GP immediately if you have any symptoms that you’re worried could be lung cancer – they will want to see you.” 

Eligible people are also being reminded to come forward for a Lung Health Check if they receive an invite. 

The Targeted Lung Health Check (TLHC) Programme is part of a national drive to screen current and past smokers, aged between 55 and 74 to detect any problems with their lungs. Those eligible for the service will receive a letter from their GP about the check-up, which is conducted to assess their risk of lung cancer.

In the Black Country, the programme currently being rolled out to patients who have a Sandwell GP by Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust and those who have a Dudley GP by The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust.

Dr Arvind Rajasekaran, Respiratory Physician and TLHC Clinical Director at Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust, said: “Lung cancer is often caught too late as there are rarely symptoms at the earlier stages. Many present to the hospital when the cancer has advanced and not amenable to curative treatments.

“The TLHC programme is designed to check those most at risk of developing lung cancer in order to spot signs earlier, at the stage when it’s much more treatable.

“So, if you’re invited to have a lung health check, please do come forward. It could save your life.”

If anyone has symptoms of lung cancer, they should visit their GP straight away and not wait for a lung health check.

For more information about lung cancer, please visit the NHS Black Country ICB website.