Gaby Roslin features in NHS lung cancer awareness campaign
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The NHS says that there are usually no signs or symptoms in the early stages, though symptoms of lung cancer develop as the condition progresses. Cancer can spread into the lung from other parts of the body. This is called metastatic lung cancer. There is no national screening programme for lung cancer in the UK. Your doctor might carry out routine blood tests and find that you have a raised platelet count, as this might be a sign of lung cancer.
Cancer Research UK says that finding lung cancer early can mean that it’s easier to treat, so if you notice any changes get them checked out by your GP as soon as possible.
The NHS has outlined some less common symptoms of lung cancer, which some people may not be aware of.
These actually include changes in the appearance of your fingers, such as becoming more curved or their ends becoming larger. This is known as finger clubbing.
Some people may also notice swelling of their face or neck, or persistent chest or shoulder pain.
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Cancer Research says that the most common symptoms of lung cancer are having a cough most of the time, having a change in a cough you have had for a long time, and chest infections that keep coming back or a chest infection that doesn’t get better.
The charity adds that losing your appetite, feeling tired all the time, and losing weight are all signs.
“A cough is also a symptom of coronavirus. It is still important to contact your GP if you have a new or worsening cough.
“They can speak to you over the phone or by a video call and arrange for tests if you need them,” the charity notes.
There are some factors that can increase your risk of developing lung cancer.
Smoking tobacco is the biggest cause of lung cancer in the UK. Cancer Research says seven out of 10 lung cancers are caused by smoking.
The NHS says If you smoke more than 25 cigarettes a day, you are 25 times more likely to get lung cancer than a non-smoker.
If you do not smoke, frequent exposure to other people’s smoking can increase your risk of developing lung cancer.
Your risk of lung cancer is higher if you have a close relative (such as a parent or sibling) who has had lung cancer.
Exposure to certain chemicals and substances which are used in several occupations and industries may increase your risk of developing lung cancer.
Previous lung diseases can increase your risk of lung cancer. These risks are usually higher in smokers.
Once tests have been completed, it should be possible for doctors to know what stage your cancer is, what this means for your treatment and whether it’s possible to completely cure the cancer.
Cancer Research states: “Your outcome depends on the type of lung cancer that you have and also the stage of the cancer when it was diagnosed.”
The NHS says research also suggests that being exposed to diesel fumes over many years increases your risk of developing lung cancer.
It notes: “One study has shown your risk of developing lung cancer increases by around 33 percent if you live in an area with high levels of nitrogen oxide gases.”
Trials and studies are assessing the effectiveness of lung cancer screening, so there may be screening opportunities in the future.
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