Dudley residents aged 55 to 75 who smoke or have a history of smoking, now have access to a vital new health service aimed at improving the early detection of lung cancer.
The Targeted Lung Health Check Programme (TLHC) launched across Dudley this month to improve outcomes for those at risk of lung cancer in the area following successful launches in Birmingham, Solihull and Sandwell.
The new service targets individuals who are:
• between the ages of 55 and 74.
• have a history of smoking.
• are registered with a Dudley GP.
Eligible residents will receive a letter from their GP inviting them to a lung health check, which includes an assessment of their risk of lung cancer. The programme is starting with practices based in Kingswinford and will be rolled out to more practices across the borough over the coming weeks.
Dudley now has an opportunity to improve early detection of lung cancer, as currently, a higher proportion of cases are diagnosed at later stages. The TLHC Programme aims to address the disparity by providing accessible and proactive screening for eligible individuals.
Dr Mazhar Chaudri, clinical director for Targeted Lung Health Checks/ consultant respiratory physician, said: “Early detection saves lives. By identifying lung cancer at an early stage, we can significantly improve survival rates and provide timely treatment The introduction of the Targeted Lung Health Check Programme in Dudley is a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to reduce cancer mortality rates. I encourage all eligible individuals to participate in this vital programme.”
To encourage participation, an awareness campaign is being launched, including adverts on buses, social media, and Black Country Radio. Additionally, a mobile screening van is stationed at locations across Dudley to provide convenient access to the lung health check for residents.
For more information about the new lung health check service visit here.
