NHS Lanarkshire backs new Scottish Government campaign urging people not to ignore potential symptoms

NHS Lanarkshire today highlighted the importance of getting potential lung cancer symptoms checked, as a bold national Detect Cancer Early campaign gets underway.

Those aged over 40 who have a new or different persistent cough, or unusual breathlessness, for three weeks or more and have tested negative for COVID-19, are being urged to not let lung cancer ‘settle in’, by contacting their GP practice without delay.

Today, Dr Jennifer Gibson from NHS Lanarkshire echoed the campaign call, reminding people that the sooner lung cancer is found, the easier it is to treat.

The Scottish Government campaign has been developed in response to Public Health Scotland data that shows around 25 per cent fewer lung cancers are being diagnosed now compared to pre-COVID-19.

This, coupled with the fear of a potential cancer diagnosis continues to stop people acting early, when there are more treatment options available and the chance of survival is higher.

Dr Jennifer Gibson, Macmillan GP Facilitator for Cancer and Palliative Care, NHS Lanarkshire said:

“In Scotland, lung cancer is the most common cancer. The earlier it is diagnosed the better, as treatment is more successful at earlier stages. Not everyone with a cough has cancer, but a persistent or changing cough may need checked out.

“If you are aged over 40 and have a persistent new cough, or a change in your usual cough, lasting three weeks or more, and especially if you have tested negative for Covid-19, contact your GP practice.

“GP practices are working differently due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with initial appointments carried out over the telephone or by video. Further examination or tests can then be arranged if they are needed.”

Health Secretary Humza Yousaf said:

“More people are surviving cancer than ever before, but we know that fear of cancer is putting people off getting checked or attending screening, when invited.

“Don’t ignore early cancer signs and symptoms, and certainly don’t delay getting checked. NHS Scotland remains open during COVID-19 and your GP practice is still there for you – getting checked early is a hugely important step in finding out if you, or your loved one, needs urgent medical help.

“While it’s probably nothing to worry about, a quicker diagnosis can mean less worry. If cancer is confirmed, more treatment options are available if it’s found early.”

For more information on lung cancer signs and symptoms, visit getcheckedearly.org