Lung Cancer Screening helps find over 500 cancers across Surrey and Sussex, with more than three quarters diagnosed early
More than 500 people across Surrey and Sussex have been diagnosed with lung cancer through the NHS Lung Cancer Screening Programme, with more than three quarters of cancers found at an early stage.
Since the programme began rolling out across the region four years ago, 513 people have been diagnosed with lung cancer following screening. Of these, over three-quarters were diagnosed at stage one or two, when lung cancer can be easier to treat and there are more treatment options available.
More than 171,000 invitations have been sent to people across the region who are eligible for the programme. Following those invites, more than 100,000 lung health checks were carried out. More than 45,000 people who were found to be at higher risk were then offered a low-dose CT scan, a type of X-ray that takes detailed pictures of the lungs.
Lung cancer can have few or no symptoms in its early stages, meaning it is often diagnosed when the disease is more advanced. Lung Cancer Screening aims to change this by offering checks to people at higher risk, helping to identify lung cancer before symptoms develop.
Mark Ingram, Lung Cancer Screening co-clinical director at Surrey and Sussex Cancer Alliance, said:
Finding lung cancer early can make a real difference to what treatment we can offer. For some patients, an early diagnosis means they can have treatment with the aim of curing their cancer.
“That is why it is so important that people who are invited for a lung health check take up the offer. You may feel perfectly well, but the check could find something that needs further investigation.
Lung Cancer Screening is offered to people aged 55 to 74. Individuals in this age range will be contacted automatically when the programme reaches their area and you don’t need to contact your GP. Those who are eligible will be invited for a Lung Health Check with a patient care advisor. This is a short health assessment.
Depending on the outcome, they may then be offered a low-dose CT scan. These scans are carried out in community locations using mobile units, making them easier to access close to home.
The scan takes only a few minutes. Results are sent to patients by letter, with the clinical team contacting anyone who needs further tests or investigations.
Local resident Mel, who accepted her invitation for an NHS lung health check, said:
The whole process was really easy and everything was explained very well. The scan itself was just lying down for a few minutes. If you get an invite through the post, why not go? Why delay something that could actually save your life? So yes, definitely come along. Do yourself a favour.
As well as looking for signs of lung cancer, the checks can identify other lung conditions and health issues that may need attention. People who smoke can also be offered support to stop smoking.
If you are aged 55 to 74 and registered with a GP you will be automatically informed that the Lung Cancer Screening programme is in your area. If you are a current or former smoker you will be invited by letter for an NHS Lung Health Check. Anyone who receives an invitation is encouraged to take up the offer, even if they feel fit and well.
Find more information about the Surrey and Sussex Lung Cancer Screening Programme, including videos and patient stories here.