November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness, educate ourselves, and advocate for those affected by lung cancer. This year, let’s work together to change the outlook for thousands of people, starting with knowing the facts, recognizing the signs, and understanding the importance of early detection.
Lung Cancer: The Facts
Lung cancer is one of the most common and deadliest cancers in the UK. Each year:
- 49,229 people are diagnosed with lung cancer.
- 34,771 lives are lost to the disease.
- Only 10% of people survive lung cancer long-term.
- An estimated 79% of lung cancer cases are preventable with lifestyle changes and proactive health choices.
Latest lung cancer statistics in the UK from Cancer Research UK (2017-2019)
These numbers underscore the urgency of early detection and the importance of educating ourselves and others. By learning the signs, encouraging early checkups, and supporting research, we can improve these statistics and save lives.
Recognising the Signs: Early Detection Saves Lives
Lung cancer symptoms can often go unnoticed or be mistaken for less serious conditions. Seeing your doctor when symptoms first appear can increase the likelihood of early diagnosis, which makes treatment more effective. While these symptoms can also be caused by other issues, it’s essential to check in with a healthcare professional to rule out lung cancer.
Some common signs of lung cancer include:
- A cough that doesn’t go away or worsens over time
- Coughing up blood or rust-colored phlegm
- Chest pain that intensifies with deep breathing, coughing, or laughing
- Hoarseness or voice changes
- Loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss
- Shortness of breath, wheezing, or fatigue
- Frequent lung infections, such as bronchitis and pneumonia
Make a Difference
There are many ways to support Lung Cancer Awareness Month and help those affected by lung cancer. Here are a few impactful actions you can take:
1. Let Go of Labels
Labels can shape our views and decisions in ways we don’t always realize. Liam Handley’s story, for example, shows how labels can be life-limiting. At 36, Liam was fit, a non-smoker, and led a healthy lifestyle, but when he experienced symptoms, the label of “non-smoker” contributed to a missed diagnosis of lung cancer. By letting go of labels, especially around health, we can focus on each person as an individual, ensuring that no one is overlooked or misjudged based on assumptions.
One proactive step is regular health screenings. A blood test can be an affordable, easy way to monitor your health. At Examine Me, our private blood testing service, you can get tested at one of our clinics across the UK, use a home test kit, or even arrange for a nurse to visit you. It’s an empowering step toward keeping your health in check and overcoming the limitations of labels.
To read Liam’s full story, visit Roycastle.org.
2. Educate Others
Raising awareness is one of the most powerful tools we have. By sharing information about lung cancer, we help to break down harmful stereotypes and increase the chances of early detection. Talk with friends, family, and colleagues about the importance of knowing the signs and advocating for their health. The more people are informed, the greater chance we have of creating a world where timely diagnosis and treatment are accessible to all.
3. Make a Donation & Get Involved with Fundraising
Every donation, no matter the size, brings us closer to life-saving breakthroughs and improves the lives of lung cancer patients and their families. Donations fund vital research, develop new treatments, and provide essential support to those facing lung cancer. Your generosity could make a difference in someone’s life today.
Consider joining “Run for Cancer Research UK” as a way to fundraise while staying healthy. This inspiring event allows you to join with friends or participate solo, adding a fun and rewarding element to the challenge. Every step you take helps advance research and gives hope to those affected by lung cancer.
Together, we can make a lasting difference this Lung Cancer Awareness Month. By raising awareness, recognizing the signs, and letting go of labels, we can create a world where everyone receives the timely diagnosis and support they need. Thank you for being a part of this mission for change.
To take control of your health this month, book a blood test on our website by clicking here.
