Lung cancer screening sees 10,000 people take part

Almost 10,000 people across Shropshire have had a free lung health check as part of a programme to detect lung cancer earlier.

The NHS Lung Cancer Screening Programme, which began rolling out across the county in December, starting in the Telford area, targets residents aged 55 to 74 who currently smoke or have smoked in the past.

About 4,500 people were identified as high risk during the checks, and went on to receive a CT scan, with 29 lung cancers being discovered as a result.

The programme has been praised by patients, including one woman who explained she felt "completely well" without any symptoms before her lung cancer was detected.

"Without the screening, I may not have known about it until much later," said June, 74, from Shifnal.

"I would encourage anyone who receives an invitation to take up the offer of screening. It could save your life."

Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin ICB said more than 75% of cases identified during the programme had an early stage of lung cancer where treatment was most effective, and that many of them had no symptoms.

Since the programme launched, 1,124 people had also been referred for stop smoking support, a spokesperson said, adding it had resulted in 224 people successfully quitting smoking at four weeks.

Clinical lead Dr Emma Crawford added: "Every lung health check is an opportunity to have a conversation about health and wellbeing, including support to stop smoking.

"We're delighted that so many people have taken up that offer and are already seeing significant benefits to their health."

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