An innovative NELFT service in Thurrock and Southend is helping identify lung cancer at an early stage.

Lung cancer can go undetected during the early stages, as there are often no signs or symptoms so it’s important to get checked.

A history of smoking puts people at a higher risk of lung cancer, it is the biggest risk factor and is responsible for 7 out of 10 cases in the UK - with the risk decreasing after people quit smoking.

The Targeted Lung Health Checks programme for current or ex-smokers aged 55-74 is running in various areas in the East of England with high rates of smoking and poor outcomes for people with lung cancer.

In Thurrock since the launch of the programme in 2021, 42 lung cancers have been found, while in Southend 31 lung cancers have been detected. The vast majority have been found at an early stage - an early diagnosis gives people the best chance of survival or cure.

To find out more about booking an appointment please visit Booking appointments (eoelunghealthcheck.nhs.uk)

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