Lung Cancer Screening Starts in North Devon

The Lung Cancer Screening (LCS) programme is a new service offered to those aged 55 to 74 who are at a greater risk of developing lung cancer. Following an initial conversation with a health professional, those who have a higher chance of developing lung cancer will be offered a simple scan. This can identify signs of cancer at an early stage when it is much more treatable – ultimately saving move lives.

Eligible patients across Northern and Eastern Devon are now also eligible for this programme and will be contacted via a letter to be invited.

Lung cancer currently causes more deaths than any other cancer in the UK. There are often no symptoms at the earlier stages of lung cancer, and it is regularly diagnosed late. However, if caught early it’s much more treatable and the survival rate is much higher. Attending a Lung Cancer Screening appointment could save your life.

Dr Thomas Burden, Respiratory Consultant at Royal Devon said, “We’re really pleased to be introducing the lung cancer screening to our patients in North Devon first before rolling out to Eastern patients later in the year. This is the biggest positive change to lung cancer care since I became a consultant. The programme will save lives by detecting lung cancer earlier, when treatment is more effective.”

Dr Kate surname, Respiratory Consultant at Royal Devon said, “Lung cancer is the third most common cancer in the UK and is often diagnosed at advanced stages when treatment options are limited. “If you’re invited for a lung health check then I really recommend that you attend. Patients have told us that the screening is straight-forward and we know that it can be lifesaving”.

The Lung Cancer Screening takes place in two steps. The first is a phone call with a specially trained health professional to assess your risk of lung cancer. If necessary, this is followed by a simple scan of the lungs using a low dose CT scanner. The scan will help identify any issues early, before symptoms occur, and when treatment has a much higher success rate.

What happens at a lung cancer screening appointment?

1. A health professional asks questions about your breathing, lifestyle, family and medical history. Height and weight measurements are also recorded.
2. Based on your answers, you may be invited for a simple lung scan. If you are not invited for a scan you will be discharged from the programme.
3. If the results of the scan show signs of anything concerning, you may be referred for further lung scans and treatment.

Look out for your letter from our provider InHealth inviting you to attend an appointment.

 To find out more visit: https://peninsulacanceralliance.nhs.uk/lung-cancer-screening/