Local residents in Bishop Auckland will be the first to be invited to take part in County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust’s new Lung Cancer Screening programme.
The scheme will see current and former smokers aged 55-74 being invited for a telephone appointment where dedicated lung nurses will talk through potential symptoms, with a follow-up invite to undergo a low dose CT scan, where appropriate
Bishop Auckland Hospital has recently been fitted with a brand new CT scanner to support the screening programme with the Trust also having access to a mobile scanner.
Catherine Lamb, Lead Nurse, said “Lung cancer currently causes more deaths than any other cancer in the UK. However, it is curable if caught early.
“There are often no symptoms at the earlier stages of lung cancer, and it is regularly diagnosed late. Spotting problems early can make a big difference, and could save your life.”
Lung Cancer Screening is aimed at achieving earlier detection of lung cancer, in areas where the population has a higher mortality from this type of cancer.
Katie Merrie, Service Lead, said: “Rates of lung cancer are high in County Durham – higher than many other parts of England. This is a much needed screening programme for our region. Telephone appointments are convenient for most people. Our CT scanners will be in community hospital locations, which are closer to home for our patients. We’re dedicated to delivering high quality and accessible care. If we call to invite you, please book an appointment - a short telephone call could end up saving your life!”
For further information, including frequently asked questions please visit Patient FAQs - Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation
Targeted Lung Health Check - Northern Cancer Alliance Northern Cancer Alliance.
If you have concerns about your health or are displaying any symptoms of lung cancer, please do not wait for an invite, speak to your GP as soon as possible.