Lung Cancer Awareness Month may be coming to an end, but it’s important to continue listening to your body all year round.

We spoke with CCC Lung Cancer Clinical Nurse Specialist, Joanne Wilson about the signs and symptoms to look out for, the risk factors of developing lung cancer, and what you can do If you have any concerns.

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What are the signs and symptoms of lung cancer that people should look out for?

“Anyone can develop lung cancer. Men and women, young and old, smokers and non-smokers. If you have lungs, you can get the disease so it is very important everyone is aware of lung cancer signs and symptoms.

With around 48,500 lung cancer cases each year, it is the most common cause of cancer death for both men and women, so it’s vital that everyone knows what the symptoms of lung cancer are. An early lung cancer diagnosis can make a big difference.

There are many different symptoms of lung cancer, including:

  • Persistent cough that lasts three weeks or more
  • Breathlessness
  • Repeat chest infections
  • Chest and/or shoulder pain
  • Loss of appetite and/or unexplained weight loss
  • Change in a long term cough, or a cough that gets worse
  • Coughing up blood
  • Unexplained fatigue or lack of energy
  • Hoarseness
  • Finger clubbing
  • Blood clots”

Are there any ways to reduce the risk of lung cancer?

“Lung cancer does not discriminate; anyone can get the disease so it is important everyone does everything they can to reduce their risk.

  • If you are still smoking, the best way to reduce your risk of getting lung cancer is to stop. It is never too late to stop smoking and there are many immediate and long term benefits to stopping.
  • Exposure to second hand smoke is also a cause of lung cancer so it is important to avoid second hand smoke as much as possible. If any of your family members smoke, ask them to go outside and not smoke in the house or car. Better still, encourage them to stop smoking for good – for their health and yours too.
  • Poor diet can also cause lung cancer so it is important you eat well and exercise regularly. Eat five portions of fruit and vegetables every day. Reduce your fat intake and eat less sugar and salt. We also recommend eating healthier proteins like fresh chicken, fish and/or pulses and reduce the amount of red and processed meats.
  • The less alcohol you drink, the lower your risk of all cancers, including lung cancer. Men and women are advised to drink no more than 14 units of alcohol a week.
  • Being active and taking regular exercise not only reduces your risk of developing cancer, it also has many other benefits. It can improve your mood, reduce stress and boost your energy. It also helps reduce the risk of falls in older adults.”


If anyone is concerned about anything mentioned here or is experiencing any symptoms, what can they do?

“You should see your doctor if you notice a change that isn't normal for you. Or if you have any of the possible signs and symptoms of cancer.

Even if you're worried about what the symptom might be, don't delay seeing them. If you're finding it difficult to get an appointment you should keep trying. Your worry is unlikely to go away if you don’t see someone about it.

The symptom might not be due to cancer. But if it is, the earlier it's picked up the higher the chance of successful treatment. You won't be wasting your doctor's time.

These tips might help you get the most out of your appointment:

  • Write down your symptoms including when they started, when they happen and how often you have them.
  • Write down anything that makes them worse or better.
  • If you would like to see a male doctor, or would prefer a female doctor, ask when you book the appointment - the receptionist will tell you if it is possible.
  • Tell your GP if you are worried about cancer.
  • Tell them if you have any family history of cancer.
  • Have a friend or relative with you for support - they could also ask questions and take notes to help you remember what the GP says.
  • Ask the GP to explain anything you don’t understand.
  • Ask the GP to write things down for you if you think it might help - if you are having a telephone or video appointment ask for the information to be left at reception for you to pick up.”