‘See your GP if cough lasts three weeks or more’

NHS Tayside is backing a drive urging people not to ignore a three-week cough.

The Detect Cancer Early (DCE) campaign, running across Scotland this month, aims to increase awareness of the fact that a cough lasting three weeks or more could be a sign of lung cancer and that those with such symptoms should get checked by their GP sooner rather than later.

Latest statistics show that since the launch of DCE, the percentage of patients diagnosed with the earliest stage of lung cancer (stage 1) in Scotland has risen by more than a third (35.6%) and by even more for those living in the most deprived areas (44.1%).

The five-year survival rate for those diagnosed at an early stage is almost 20 times higher than for those diagnosed at a late stage 2.

Dr Michelle Watts, associate medical director for primary care NHS Tayside, said: “If you’ve had a cough for three weeks or more, see your GP.

“It may be nothing serious but it does need to be checked, as a persistent cough could be a sign of lung cancer.

“The earlier lung cancer is found, the easier it is to treat. You shouldn’t worry about wasting our time, as the sooner we see you, the quicker we can help.”

Shona Robison, cabinet secretary for health, wellbeing and sport said: “It’s encouraging to see the recent increase in the percentage of lung cancers being diagnosed at the earliest stage when treatment and survival is highest.

“There’s lots that can be done to treat lung cancer, and as a result of better treatments and increased rates of early detection, more people than ever in Scotland are surviving.

“If you’ve had a cough for three weeks or more, don’t get scared, get checked.”

Dr Michelle Watts