November is lung cancer awareness month

Lung Cancer Signs & Symptoms

Know the facts

It is known that smokers and ex-smokers have an increased risk of getting lung cancer.

•  One out of every seven people diagnosed each year have never smoked.
•  Passive smoking increases your risk, but not as much as smoking yourself.
•  Contact with chemicals found in the workplace or environment, such as asbestos, radon and diesel exhaust fumes may also lead to an increase in lung cancer.

Know the risks

Lung cancer is the most common cancer in the world. In the UK, around 44,000 new cases are diagnosed each year. It is the most common cause of cancer death in the UK for both men and women. Everyone is at risk of developing lung cancer.

How do I reduce my risk?

•  Get help to stop smoking – call the smoking cessation team on 0161 291 5030
•  Reduce your exposure to second hand smoke.
•  Diet and exercise can be important.
•  Eat five portions of fruit and vegetables every day.
•  Reduce your fat intake.
•  Eat less salt and sugar.
•  Reduce how much alcohol you drink.
•  Take regular exercise.

What should I look for?

A cough is the most well-known symptom of lung cancer, but there are others that you need to be aware of. These include:

•  A cough that won't go away, that changes or gets worse
•  Blood in your phlegm
•  Feeling breathless for no reason
•  Chest or shoulder pains
•  Chest infections
•  Coughing up blood
•  Hoarseness in voice
•  Unexplained tiredness, lack of energy and/or weight loss

What do I do if I am worried?

Don't delay visiting your GP. It is most likely that this will be nothing serious and will put your mind at rest. If it is lung cancer, early diagnosis and treatment could save your life.