STOCKPORT COUNCIL URGES RESIDENTS TO BE AWARE OF LUNG CANCER SIGNS

Recognising the symptoms of lung cancer early can save lives and Stockport Council is urging residents to be aware of the early symptoms of the disease.

The national ‘Be Clear on Cancer’ campaign launched by Public Health England is being supported by Stockport Council and Stockport CCG. It encourages residents to recognise the signs of lung cancer, which includes having a cough for three weeks or more, and urges them to visit their GP.

Councillor John Pantall, Stockport Council’s Executive Member for Health and Well Being, said:

“Raising people’s awareness of the symptoms of lung cancer is extremely important. The earlier the disease is diagnosed the more treatable it is. The message to Stockport residents is very clear – if you have had a cough for three weeks or more, book an appointment with your doctor.”   

Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers in England with around 34,900 people diagnosed every year. Around 97% of these are aged 50 and over.

In England, around 28,100 people die from lung cancer every year, killing more men and women than any other cancer. Although lung cancer is more common in smokers, around one in eight people with lung cancer have never smoked.

Stockport CCG’s Chief Clinical Officer Dr Ranjit Gill, who is also a local GP, said:

“Although being told you have cancer is devastating, we must all understand it’s not the life sentence it used to be. Caught early enough, there is a real chance that treatment will be successful which is why it is vital that people know the signs of lung cancer.

“If you’ve had a cough that’s lasted three weeks or more, it’s probably nothing serious but you need to get it checked out by your doctor. Regardless of what is wrong with you, your doctor will not think you’re wasting their time. We’d rather give you the all clear than miss a chance to possibly save your life.”

For more information about lung cancer and recognising the symptoms visit  www.nhs.uk/lungcancer

As part of the Council’s ‘Get Involved in a Healthier Stockport’ campaign residents are being encouraged to make positive lifestyle changes. This could include reducing alcohol consumption or eating healthier food, to improve their health in 2014.  

For free local support and confidential advice for a healthier lifestyle, visit www.healthystockport.co.uk, phone 0161 426 5085 or email info@healthystockport.co.uk