In the UK calendar, November is dedicated to Lung Cancer Awareness Month. Lung cancer is the third most common cancer in the UK and accounts for 13% of all new cancer cases.

For both men and women, it is the second most common cancer. This annual campaign aims to educate the public about the symptoms of lung cancer, promote the significance of early detection, and guide individuals on what steps to take if symptoms are identified.

Who Needs to be Aware?

Who hasn’t heard about the person who smoked 40 cigarettes a day for all their life and lived to a ripe old age? But you’ve probably also heard about someone who had lung cancer and never smoked at all. The fact is that smoking tobacco is the biggest cause of lung cancer in the UK. More than  60% of lung cancers are caused by smoking. And this includes breathing in other people’s cigarette smoke.

79% of lung cancer cases in the UK are preventable, which means that 21% of cases are beyond our control. Workplace exposures and outdoor air pollution all have an impact. Slightly more women than men aged around 60 will be diagnosed with lung cancer in their lifetime - 1 in 13 UK females and 1 in 14 UK males.

Why Early Screening Matters

If lung cancer is diagnosed at the earliest stage, around 65% of people will survive for five years or more, but this falls dramatically to less than approximately 5% if it is diagnosed at an advanced stage.

Many people underestimate the value of early screening or delay it altogether, thinking that it just doesn’t apply to them, illustrating why raising awareness about the early signs of lung cancer and encouraging screenings really can save lives.

Recognising Lung Cancer Symptoms

Lung cancer often remains asymptomatic (has no symptoms) in its initial stages. However, as it progresses, it may present symptoms such as:

• A persistent cough that goes on for more than 3 weeks
• Coughing up blood
• Recurring chest infections or infections that linger
• Changes in a longstanding cough
• Unexplained breathlessness and wheezing
• Persistent hoarseness lasting over 3 weeks
• Chest or shoulder pain that persists

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s really important that you make an appointment with your GP immediately.

Lung Awareness Month

Screening is for people who don’t have symptoms but may have some risk factors that will make it worthwhile. The chances are that you will get nothing more than reassurance, but it’s important to remember that if lung cancer is picked up early, recovery prospects are significantly enhanced.

Key Facts About Lung Cancer in the UK

• Lung cancer claims more lives than any other cancer in the UK.
• Most cases are diagnosed only after the disease has spread.
• Lung cancer cases in the UK are on the rise.
• Approximately 35,000 people die from lung cancer annually, representing around 20% of all cancer deaths.
• More women die from lung cancer than breast cancer in the UK, even among those who have never smoked, making lung cancer the 8th most common cause of cancer-related death.
• The UK has some of the lowest survival rates for lung cancer compared to other European countries, with many diagnoses occurring at advanced stages, often through emergency Admissions.
• Screening and early diagnosis will play a critical role in improving these hard-hitting facts and figures.

Overcoming Reluctance Toward Screening

Unfortunately, societal stigma and embarrassment often deter individuals from seeking cancer screenings, especially those already at risk due to factors like smoking or lifestyle choices.

Compounding this issue are the NHS’s waiting lists, which can delay access to timely diagnosis and specialist care.

Fear and anxiety surrounding cancer screening are understandable, but shouldn’t be barriers to potentially life-saving early detection.

Take Control with Check4Cancer

At Check4Cancer, we’ve simplified cancer screening for individuals and corporate team members alike. So, whether you want to undergo lung cancer screening on your own or offer it as a benefit to your employees, Check4Cancer offers evidence-based, clinically validated, strongly governed, fast and reliable screens and checks.