Warning over lung disease

A NEW campaign is hoping to help raise awareness of the symptoms of lung disease or lung cancer in an effort to increase early diagnosis, with Launceston considered a “hotspot” for lung cancer.

Lung Foundation Australia chief executive Mark Brooke said every year more than 13,200 Australians are expected to be diagnosed with lung cancer and for the Launceston region there is a 14 per cent higher diagnosis and death rate than the national average.

“We know that there are a number of factors which can increase a person’s risk of lung cancer and these include a history of smoking or exposure to second-hand smoke, occupational exposure to things such as asbestos, dust or chemicals, and the risk increases for those over the age of 40,” Mr Brooke said.

He said recognising early symptoms was crucial to early diagnosis.

“We cannot overstate how important it is that lung cancer is diagnosed as early as possible,” he said.

“An early diagnosis can have such a dramatic impact on survival rates and overall health outcomes.”