A lung cancer screening programme for current and ex-smokers has helped save lives, successfully leading to the earlier diagnosis of 70 people locally.
Initially called the Targeted Lung Health Check, the service is offered to people between the ages of 55 and 74 who are current or former smokers and therefore at greater risk of lung cancer.
The programme was launched in Great Yarmouth and Gorleston in 2022 and Lowestoft in 2023, as data shows people living in these areas have a higher risk of developing lung cancer. Since then it has been taken up by 8000 people and there are now plans to roll it out in other areas of Norfolk and Waveney later this year.
How does it work?
The screening service is designed to find out how well someone’s lungs are working and to identify problems early. Most of the time no issue is found, but if cancer, lung or breathing issues are found early, treatment could be simpler and more successful.
Eligible individuals are contacted by the NHS to arrange a screening appointment, on the basis of their smoking history.
During the appointment an initial assessment is carried out with a health professional and then, if necessary, a scan of the lungs is taken. The scans are carried out by a team at the James Paget University Hospital, who have now completed over 5000 scans.
Improved chance of success
Dr Suzanne Phillips, Clinical Lead for Cancer for NHS Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care Board, said: “If you’ve ever been a smoker, your risk of lung cancer is increased.
“This reduces over time, but people are still at increased risk, when compared to those who have never smoked. You might now vape or not smoked for years, but it’s still really important to take part in this screening if you’re offered it.
“The earlier we can diagnose cancer, the more treatment options are available so people can live long and healthy lives.”
Siji Dileep, Lead Nurse for lung cancer screening at the James Page University Hospital Trust, said: “Having a scan is completely painless and you are only in the scanner for a few minutes.
“The scan gives us a detailed picture of a patient’s lungs, enabling us to check for the early signs of lung cancer. This is really important as early detection improves the chances of successful treatment.”
You can find out more about Lung Cancer Screening in Norfolk and Waveney here.
