Lung cancer campaign launched

A GIANT interactive, educational exhibit was unveiled at The Blanchardstown Centre last week as part of the Irish Cancer Society’s annual lung cancer awareness campaign.

The MEGA Lungs is a massive set of inflatable lungs where people can see first-hand exactly how lungs work, and the damage that can be done to them by smoking and other factors.

Supported by AstraZeneca, the campaign aims to increase early detection of lung disease by encouraging the public to be lung aware and get to know the signs and symptoms of lung cancer.

Over 2,500 people are diagnosed with lung cancer every year in Ireland. Over half of patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage; and more worryingly, the most recent data shows that 25 percent of those presenting with lung cancer were first diagnosed in an emergency department.

Aoife McNamara of Irish Cancer Society, said it’s a concerning development.

“There’s a worrying trend developing where patients are entering A&E with symptoms to be told for the first time, that they have cancer,” she added.

“This is particularly prevalent in lung cancer. We are also seeing older patients and those from areas of higher deprivation are more likely to be diagnosed in an emergency department. 

“Unfortunately, a late stage lung cancer diagnosis can mean treatment options are very limited and survival rates are much lower.”

The Irish Cancer Society is urging people to take its free online lung health checker quiz available at www.cancer.ie/lung/checker. 

If you or someone you know has difficulty breathing, is wheezing, or has a cough that won’t go away, speak to your doctor immediately or contact the Irish Cancer Society Nurseline on Freephone 800-200700 or email [email protected].