Hampshire lung cancer screening launches
Anyone who has smoked or still smokes aged between 55 and 74 will be contacted
Last updated 7th Feb 2025
Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has launched Lung Cancer Screening in the fight against lung cancer.
The screening is a way to gain peace of mind for anyone aged from 55 to 74 who has ever smoked.
Early detection is crucial: 80% of lung cancers found through the screening programme have been at stage 1 or stage 2, compared to 30% without this kind of intervention.
GPs have begun writing to individuals aged between 55 to 74, who have ever smoked, to invite them to take part in the screening.
The screening involves an initial phone conversation to check eligibility followed by a further telephone appointment with a healthcare professional which will focus on breathing, overall lung health, lifestyle, and family history. If necessary, the next step will be referral for a low dose, painless CT scan at a mobile scanner, parked in a convenient place.
Vital weapon
Speaking about the launch of the programme, Dr Mark Watson, Respiratory Consultant at Hampshire Hospitals, says: “This screening programme is a vital weapon in the fight against lung cancer and other respiratory diseases.
“For many, lung cancer presents late due to a lack of symptoms; however, the Lung Cancer Screening aims to address this by picking up early cancers.
“If caught early enough, lung cancer can be treated successfully.
“Even a light smoker who gave up decades ago could be at risk.”
Symptoms
Patients outside of the age group who are concerned about their symptoms should still contact a health care professional especially if: coughing up blood; experiencing a persistent cough or change to a normal cough; suffering unexplained tiredness or weight loss; aches or pain when breathing or coughing, or appetite loss.
Those people eligible will be sent invitation letters. More information can be found here