Macmillan Cancer Support is urging the public to be aware of the signs and symptoms of the UK's most lethal cancer, as part of Lung Cancer Awareness Month this November. 

A team of cancer information specialists will be stopping off in North West London on Thursday 3 November and Wednesday 9 November to answer questions, give advice and inform people about local cancer services and support.

The service is open to anyone, no matter what your concern - whether you’re living with or beyond cancer, or are a loved one or carer for someone who is.

Lung cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in the UK, and the biggest cause of cancer death. However, Macmillan stresses that it doesn’t have to be a death sentence – awareness of the common signs and symptoms can help diagnose lung cancer earlier, when curative treatment is more likely.

Tracy Neill, a Macmillan Information and Support Specialist on the mobile service, says: “It is really important to be aware of the symptoms of lung cancer, as with all types of cancer, the earlier it is detected the greater the chances of effective treatment.

“Worryingly, according to recent studies an estimated 77% of lung cancer patients said they were unaware of the signs and symptoms, and that means many are being diagnosed too late for curative treatment.

"It’s really vital that more people are educated – getting people to their GP’s when symptoms occur could mean earlier diagnosis and a better prognosis.”

There are some common symptoms often displayed by patients with lung cancer. These symptoms can all be caused by other illnesses too, but if they occur for three weeks or more it’s always advisable to speak to your GP about them.

  • a continuing cough, or change in a long-standing cough
  • becoming breathless and wheezy
  • coughing up bloodstained phlegm (sputum)
  • chest or shoulder pain
  • weight loss
  • a chest infection that doesn’t get better
  • a hoarse voice
  • a dull ache or sharp pain when you cough or take a deep breath
  • difficulty swallowing
  • feeling extremely tired (fatigue) and lethargic
  • the ends of fingers becoming larger or looking more rounded (clubbing)
  • swelling of lymph nodes (glands) in the neck area

Ms Neill continued: “We believe that no one should face cancer alone, so while we’re in North West London, we want people to know that we’re here for anyone affected by cancer.

"If you’ve got questions or worries just come and see us – no matter what type of cancer you might have; whether it’s about you, a relative or a friend; whether you have concerns about treatment or your finances; or even if you just want a chat.

"Our specialists can give you free information and advice and tell you about local services that may be of help – all you need to do is stop by, no appointment needed.”

Cancer is the toughest fight many people will ever face, and the feelings of isolation and loneliness that so many people experience make it even harder. But you don’t have to go through it alone.

Our five mobile information units travel around the UK visiting local communities, providing cancer information and advice on the ground. Last year they helped around 74,000 people in over 565 locations across the UK.

The bus will visit Wembley on Thursday 3 November at the main entrance to the London Designer Outlet, near Prezzo, from 9.30am to 3.30pm. And on Wednesday 9 November will be in Ealing, outside the Town Hall, New Broadway from 9.30am to 3.30pm. 

To find out when Macmillan’s mobile information service will visit your town, visit:

www.macmillan.org.uk/aboutus/contactus/mobileinformationcentrelocations.aspx

If you’re unable to visit the mobile unit but have questions about cancer, visit www.macmillan.org.uk or call the Macmillan Support Line free on 0808 808 00 00 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 8pm).

You can search for Macmillan services near you at www.macmillan.org.uk/in-your-area/choose-location.html