Campaign to speed up diagnosis of lung disease
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HALTON residents are being urged to visit their doctor after a new awareness campaign focusing on breathlessness being a potential sign of lung or heart disease was launched.
The Be Clear On Cancer respiratory symptoms campaign aims to improve understanding of the condition.
Those who get out of breath doing simple everyday activities, such as getting dressed, are encouraged to go to their GP as early diagnosis and treatment can improve the quality of life of those living with long-term conditions.
Many people in England suffer from breathlessness but may not have seen their doctor.
Instead they might have developed coping mechanisms, such as taking short breaks, giving up hobbies or not leaving the house as often.
The campaign highlights those experiencing breathlessness doing things they used to be able to do ought to go to their doctor.
Halton Borough Council’s director of public health Eileen O’Meara said: “Our heart and lungs are about the most impor- tant things in our body, but we take breathing for granted.
“Sometimes it’s easy to ignore some changes like shortness of breath, finding things more difficult that you always used to do, or an irritating cough that won’t go away.
“But we shouldn’t ignore these early warning signs, they could be sign of lung or heart disease or even cancer.
“But, finding these early makes them more treatable, so please don’t ignore them, tell your doctor.”
Events will be held across Runcorn and Widnes to raise awareness of the symptoms and encourages people to be checked out and receive a free lung age test.
The first event was held at Widnes Market on Wednesday, May 24, from 10am to 2pm.
Tying in with Love Your Local Market events, a team will be on hand to offer information and advice as well as lung age tests.
A Halton Borough Council spokesman said: “The test takes just a few seconds to measure your lung capacity and the levels of CO2 in your body.
“The results will give you a good idea of how healthy you really are – you may be surprised!
“Members of our team will also be there to offer lifestyle advice for anyone who wants to get fitter and healthier.”
The campaign will run for 15 weeks.
For more information visit www.haltonhealthimprovement.co.uk