Lung cancer is frequently diagnosed at a later stage than other cancers because often there are no signs or symptoms at an early stage. The
Targeted Lung Health Check Programme is a new pilot scheme designed to identify signs of cancer at an early stage when it is much more treatable ultimately saving move lives.
The programme is being offered to people between the ages of 55 and 74 who are current or former smokers and at greater risk of lung cancer. Those eligible will be sent a letter to invite them for a Lung Health Check.
The Lung Heath Check finds out how well a participant’s lungs are working and hopes to identify problems early. Most of the time no issue is found, but if cancer or an issue with a participant’s breathing or lungs is found early, treatment could be simpler and more successful.
What happens during the check?
There are two main stages to a Targeted Lung Health Check. The first is an initial assessment with a health professional and the second, if necessary, is a simple scan of the lungs.
Initial assessment:
• If you are eligible, you will receive a letter inviting you for an initial Lung Health Check. This will take place over the phone.
• At the Lung Health Check, you will be asked some questions about your breathing, overall lung health, lifestyle and family and medical history.
• Measurements of your height and weight will be taken.
• There are three possible results from your lung health check:
• No problems found the nurse may find nothing further to investigate and you will be discharged from the lung health check
programme. We will write to your GP to tell them this.
• Referral to your GP if problem with your breathing or lung health are found, you might be referred to your GP. We will write to
your GP so they know about the appointment.
• Offered a scan of your lungs whether you are offered a lung scan will depend on your chance of getting lung cancer now or in the
future. We work out your risk from your lifestyle, medical and family history. The nurse will help you to choose whether the test is right for you. We will write to your GP so they know about the appointment.
Lung scan:
• The lung cancer scan uses a low dose CT scanner to take a detailed picture of your lungs, to check for the early signs of lung cancer.
• The appointment will last approximately 30 minutes and you’ll have a chance to ask the nurse any questions.
• If your scan results come back with signs of anything concerning, you’ll be contacted with further information and referred for further tests and treatment.
• The lung scan is on a mobile truck and can take place in a variety of locations including your local hospital, supermarket or local community carpark. The check is carried out over the telephone and, if a CT scan is required, this will be booked at a mobile CT scanning van which will initially be set up at Bank Street car park, Blackpool, close to the town centre from mid-August.
For more information, visit www.fyldecoastccgs.nhs.uk/local-services/nhs-targeted-lung-health-checks-in-blackpool or call 01530 432 341.