Lung cancer awareness

North Lanarkshire residents who have had a persistent cough for more than three weeks but have tested negative for Covid-19 are being encouraged to contact their GP practice.

National statistics, released as part of the Scottish Government’s Detect Cancer Early campaign, show around 25 per cent fewer lung cancers are being diagnosed now, compared to pre-coronavirus.

NHS Lanarkshire is advising people who have tested negative for the virus, but have a persistent new or different cough for three weeks or more, to seek medical advice.

Lung cancer is the most common cancer in Scotland, with around 5000 people diagnosed each year.

However, more can be done to treat the disease if it’s found at an early stage – and recently published cancer survival statistics show improvements in five-year survival rates for both men and women (2.3 per cent and 5.1 percent respectively).

The NHS board has highlighted that those aged 40 and over should not put off contacting their GP practice if they have any possible cancer symptoms.

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 at the moment because of the Covid-19 pandemic so it is likely that you will speak to a healthcare professional by phone in the first instance, and they will organise further tests for you if needed.”

Health Secretary Jeane Freeman said:“diagnosing and treating cancer has been and will remain a key priority throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Early detection is key and we’re encouraging people, especially those aged over 40, to contact their GP practice if they’ve tested negative for Covid-19, but have a persistent new or different cough that’s lasted three weeks or more.

“I want to reassure people that whilst the NHS is working differently, and they may not be able to see their GP in person, their practice is there to help them access key tests and support them through the process.

“Please don’t delay seeking help as the earlier lung cancer is found the better, and a lot can be done to treat it.”