By Dr Sanjeev Maskara, Alliance Clinical Lead
As a local Macmillan GP, I often see how vital it is to raise awareness around lung cancer, especially during Lung Cancer Awareness Month. Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers in the UK, and like many cancers, early detection can make a significant difference. Knowing what to look out for and taking action can save lives.
An easy way to remember the key symptoms of lung cancer is by using the “ABCD” method. Let’s explore what each of these stands for and how being mindful of these signs can help catch lung cancer early.
A – Appetite Loss
One of the first signs of lung cancer can be a change in appetite. If you find yourself eating less, feeling full quickly, or simply not wanting to eat as much as usual, it could be a sign that something isn’t quite right. While appetite changes can be caused by many things, it’s important not to ignore this symptom, especially if it’s persistent.
Questions to ask yourself:
- Have I noticed a change in my appetite?
- Do I feel full after eating only a small amount?
- Am I unintentionally losing weight?
B – Breathlessness and/or blood
Breathlessness or feeling short of breath when doing activities that wouldn’t normally leave you winded can be a warning sign of lung cancer. If you struggle to catch your breath while climbing stairs or going for a walk, take note. Sometimes this symptom can be dismissed as a sign of ageing or lack of fitness, but persistent breathlessness should never be ignored. Coughing up blood is another serious symptom that needs immediate attention.
Questions to ask yourself:
- Am I becoming breathless more easily than I used to?
- Do I struggle to catch my breath while doing everyday tasks?
- Have I noticed blood when I cough?
C – Coughing and/or chest pain
A new cough that doesn’t go away after two or three weeks, or a change in a long-standing cough, could be an indication of lung cancer. This may include coughing up blood or having a cough that worsens over time. If your cough has changed, become more persistent, or has become painful, it’s essential to speak to your GP.
Questions to ask yourself:
- Do I have a persistent cough that has lasted more than three weeks?
- Has my usual cough changed in any way—become more frequent or painful?
- Am I coughing up blood?
D – Difficulty swallowing or a difference in your voice
Changes to your voice, such as hoarseness, or difficulty swallowing are also potential signs of lung cancer. If you experience a sore throat or find it uncomfortable to swallow, and the problem doesn’t resolve, it’s important to seek medical advice.
Questions to ask yourself:
- Has my voice become hoarse or changed for no clear reason?
- Am I finding it difficult or painful to swallow?
- Do I have a sore throat that won’t go away?
We all lead busy lives, and it’s easy to dismiss certain symptoms, especially when they seem mild. However, being aware of the ABCD signs of lung cancer can help you spot when something might be wrong. You don’t need to be an expert—just pay attention to your body and any changes.
Lung cancer can affect people who have never smoked, as well as those who do, so it’s important that everyone is aware of the symptoms and acts if something feels wrong.
If you notice any of these signs—whether it’s a persistent cough, breathlessness, changes in appetite, or discomfort in your chest or back—don’t wait. Contact your GP.
Targeted Lung Health Checks
The Targeted Lung Health Check programme has been running across mid and south Essex since 2020. It invites people aged between 55 and 75 (74 years and 364 days) who are smokers or former smokers to have a lung health check. This programme helps detect lung cancer earlier, when treatment is more effective, and ultimately saves lives.
So far, the programme has visited Thurrock, Southend, Castle Point and Rochford, completing over 24,000 lung health checks. More than 11,300 people have received a CT scan, resulting in the detection and treatment of over 163 previously undiagnosed lung cancers, 114 (70%) of which were at the earlier stages of 1 or 2.
The programme is currently available to people living in Basildon and Brentwood who meet the criteria, and it will move to mid Essex (the city of Chelmsford and districts of Braintree and Maldon) in the new year.
It’s always better to check and find out it’s nothing than to miss an early diagnosis. This Lung Cancer Awareness Month, I encourage everyone to be mindful of these symptoms, whether for yourself or a loved one. The earlier we catch lung cancer, the better the chances of successful treatment.
For more information on lung cancer and the support available in mid and south Essex, visit our ABCD of cancer page.