Published at 16:12, Wednesday, 18 July 2012

FORTY six more people have been diagnosed with lung cancer thanks to a county-wide awareness campaign.

NHS Cumbria launched its Cough Cough campaign last year – resulting in a 61 per cent increase in people being diagnosed with lung cancer compared to the same period in the previous year.

Official figures revealed that during the campaign period, more people were referred for urgent two week cancer tests.

Lung cancer is one of the biggest cancer killers and in 2010, the latest year for which figures are available, 313 people in Cumbria died from the disease – 43 from the Furness area, 44 from Copeland and 46 from South Lakeland.

The Cough Cough campaign aims to raise people’s awareness of the early signs and symptoms of lung cancer and the importance of an early diagnosis.

Barrow was targeted in a bid to combat the number of cases in the area.

Dr Rebecca Wagstaff, deputy director of public health for NHS Cumbria, said: “It’s good news that as a result of this campaign we have seen an increase in patients being referred for tests, but also getting a early diagnosis for lung cancer following this.

“However, we must not become complacent.

“We know that in Cumbria our long-term survival rates for lung cancer are not good enough and this is often due to people being diagnosed with cancer at a late stage, when it’s already advanced.

“It’s so important that people know the symptoms of lung cancer so they can spot it early and go to the doctor or encourage others to go along.

“The earlier someone is diagnosed, the earlier they can start treatment.”

Symptoms of lung cancer can include persistent coughing for several weeks, unexplained weight loss, shortness of breath, chest pain and blood in phlegm.

Anyone who has been diagnosed with lung cancer at an early stage who would like to share their story is encouraged to get in touch with NHS Cumbria to help raise awareness by calling 01768 245435 or emailing enquires@cumbriapct.nhs.uk.

Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk