Useful Information
Patient Documents
An easy read version of a leaflet with more information about this service can be found here: TLHC Booklet Easy Read version.
A leaflet with more information about this service can be found here: Targeted Lung Health Check Participant booklet.
A page has been created with some digital assets to download in order to help spread the message of TLHC.
Useful links
Below are a number of useful links to other NHS websites as well as local and national charities that have further information on lung health:
Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation - A national charity dedicated to supporting people with lung cancer and funding research into the condition.
Home - Healthy Cornwall - Link to a local support group who can help with healthy living advice and stop smoking.
British Lung Foundation - A UK wide charity providing help for people affected by a lung condition, funding for research into different lung conditions and running national campaigns on raising awareness lung conditions and their causes.
About COPD - a link to the British Lung Foundation Website with lots of information on COPD.
Macmillan Cancer Support - The national charity that supports people affected by cancer, including lung cancer.
Cancer Research UK - A charity that funds research into cancer and potential treatments.
NHS Long Term Plan - Sets out the NHS' plans for the future, including a commitment to diagnose more cancers earlier.
FAQS
What is the aim of the Targeted Lung Health Check programme?
The aim of the programme is to detect lung cancer and disease early so that people can be treated sooner and more effectively – ultimately saving more lives. Lung cancer often has no symptoms in the earlier stages which can result in it not being found until the later stages when outcomes are less favourable.
What is a Targeted Lung Health Check?
The lung health check takes part in two stages. The first is an appointment with a specially trained nurse to assess your risk level. If you are found to be at high risk of having lung cancer you will be invited to have a low dose CT scan so we can capture an image of your lungs and identify if there are any issues which need further investigation or treatment.
Where will lung health checks take place?
The first phase will be carried out via phone call. If you are invited to have a CT scan these will be carried out by radiographers on mobile units or at a local hospital. The mobile units will be parked in community venues or supermarket car parks which have good transport links for ease of access. The first location of the lung health check van will be in East Cornwall.
What happens after a lung health check?
Should anything be identified either during the discussion with a nurse or from the CT scan, then you will be contacted by telephone or letter with the next steps.
Why is the Targeted Lung Health Check only being offered to smokers/past smokers in a certain age range?
The Targeted Lung Health Check is currently being offered to those most at risk of getting lung cancer. Data shows those between the age of 55 and 74 who currently or previously smoked are at a higher risk than others of getting lung cancer. If you display any symptoms or have any concerns about your lung health you should book an appointment to see your GP straight away.
When are the Targeted Lung Health Checks starting?
The first scan will be taking place in East Cornwall in August 2022.
When will the van be moving?
The van will be moving to Bodmin in May 2023.
Do I have to get undressed if I need a CT Scan?
You may need to remove your coat, but you can leave your clothing on.
What happens if I need to change my appointment?
You can contact our patient enquires team on 01872 307138 who will be able to assist you.
Why isn’t it available in my area?
The Targeted Lung Health Check Programme is being rolled out across the the areas with higher lung cancer mortality rates are being prioritised first and new locations will be available from May 2022. If you are worried about any of the below symptoms, please see your GP as soon as possible:
- A persistent cough or change in your normal cough
- Coughing up blood
- Being short of breath
- Unexplained tiredness or weight loss
- An ache or pain when breathing or coughing
- Appetite loss
