Listen out for lung cancer and save your life

Lung cancer is the most common cause of cancer deaths in NSW, with an average of seven deaths each day. Early detection doubles a person’s chance of survival.

The Cancer Institute NSW’s Listen Out For Lung Cancer campaign is aimed at the whole community.

Lung cancer can happen to anyone, and although smoking is the single biggest risk factor, non-smokers can also contract lung cancer.

Chief Cancer Officer and Cancer Institute NSW CEO Professor David Currow said the Listen Out For Lung Cancer campaign targets three key symptoms – a persistent cough, changed cough or coughing up blood.

“As a community, we need to listen out for lung cancer and not only recognise the signs and symptoms but take action,” Professor Currow said.

“If you have had a persistent cough lasting longer than three weeks, had a cough that has changed or if you have coughed up blood it is important you see your GP straight away to ask for a chest x-ray. It could save your life.

“Lung cancer has a relatively high mortality rate compared with other cancers. While it is the fourth most common cancer in both men and women, it is the leading cause of cancer deaths.”

Lung cancer claims the lives of more than 2600 people in NSW each year - more than breast and prostate cancer together.

Two out of every three people diagnosed with a type of cancer will survive, thanks to continued investment in community education, cancer research, improved treatments and early detection.

Image courtesy of Cancer Institute NSW