Aucklanders urged to look out for lung cancer

Aucklanders urged to look out for lung cancer symptoms
21 May 2010

Recognising lung cancer symptoms early could save your life, Aucklanders are being told.

The message was delivered this week at the launch of a new health campaign The Sooner the Better , which aims to help people recognise the symptoms of lung cancer and encourage them to seek medical treatment early. The campaign will run from May to August in Auckland and Northland.

Dr Richard Sullivan, Medical Oncologist and Clinical Director of the Northern Cancer Network says recognising symptoms early is the key to surviving lung cancer.

“Knowing the symptoms, spotting them early and seeking medical attention could save your life, or the life of a loved one. Although many people don't realise it, lung cancer is curable if detected quickly.

“People who are 40 years old and over, and a current or past smoker, are at greater risk of developing lung cancer and need to be especially vigilant.”

Dr Sullivan says lung cancer symptoms to look out for include:

• a persistent cough that lasts longer than three weeks and becomes worse over time
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• coughing up excessive amounts of phlegm with blood
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• chest pain with coughing or breathing, and
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• a chest infection that doesn't get better or keeps recurring.
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The Sooner the Better campaign, developed by the Northern Cancer Network, includes radio and print advertising. Maori and Pacific populations are key campaign audiences as they are more likely to die from lung cancer than other groups.

“If you or someone you care for has lung cancer symptoms, your GP or other health professional is there to help,” says Dr Sullivan.

ENDS

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