23 November 2009
A doctor who specialises in treating people with lung problems is urging local people to be aware of the risks and symptoms of lung cancer, as he gets behind a national campaign to raise awareness of the disease this month.
Dr Shakil Rahman, consultant in respiratory medicine for the Trust, is supporting lung cancer awareness month, which runs throughout November.
Dr Rahman said: "Sadly, lung cancer doesn't always get the recognition it deserves. It is a disease which kills more people than prostate and breast cancer put together, but people tend to forget quite how serious it is.
"Progress has come a long way in the past ten years though - people are stopping smoking, the treatments available to patients have improved and as long as we catch it early, the outcome can be very positive. But that doesn't mean we can be laid back about it - we've got to keep up the hard work to make sure that everyone is aware of the devastating effects of lung cancer.
"Lung cancer - as with any cancer - is a very frightening thing to face, and sometimes people who are showing signs of it are reluctant to go and see their doctor. But I would urge anyone that has any of the symptoms to seek medical advice at the earliest opportunity; otherwise it'll just get worse and worse. We can help."
The early signs and symptoms are:
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A cough that doesn't go away after two to three weeks;
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Worsening or change of a long-standing cough;
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Repeated chest infections;
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Coughing up blood;
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Unexplained persistent breathlessness;
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Unexplained persistent tiredness;
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Unexplained persistent weight loss and loss of appetite;
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Persistent chest and/or shoulder pain.
Dr Rahman added: "Reducing your chance of developing lung cancer is simple, try not to ever start smoking and if you already do, try to quit. Your GP will be able to offer you plenty of support in stopping smoking."
The Trust's lung cancer service has performed consistently well for the past five years, with patient waiting times at a minimum. 100 per cent of patients referred to the hospital for further checks are seen within two weeks - this is above the Government standard.
Dr Rahman said: "We know that being referred to hospital with possible cancer is an incredibly daunting thing to go through - that's why we work so hard to make sure our patients aren't waiting a long time for their appointments, and where necessary, their treatment.
"The whole service is provided by a highly dedicated, motivated and committed team, which includes consultants, junior doctors, cancer nurse specialists and medical secretaries."
