Lung Cancer Screening (LCS) launched in Doncaster in 2021 as one of 10 national pilot areas. It’s now expanded across South Yorkshire and Bassetlaw, aiming to catch lung cancer early and tackle health inequalities. The success of the pilots means it’s on track to become a national programme by 2029.
If you’re aged between 55 and 74, and currently smoke or used to, and are registered with a GP in SYB, you’ll receive a letter inviting you for a Lung Health Check.
Dr Jason Page, LCS Clinical Director in SYB, said: “Now we are established in Sheffield and returning to our other areas, we have a better understanding of our eligible population and any barriers to them attending their appointments.
“A common barrier for people is feeling anxious about having a scan. LCS is in two parts: the Lung Health Check, which is a telephone conversation with a healthcare professional who will ask you questions to determine your risk of developing lung cancer. Only if your risk score meets a certain threshold will you be referred for the second part, a scan. It’s a misconception that if you are eligible for LCS you will automatically have a scan, when only around 50% of people who have a Lung Health Check will be referred for one.
“We want our SYB residents to be well informed about LCS, so have produced a video that follows the process and walks you through what happens at a scan appointment. We’re very proud of it and truly hope it helps people.”
The video also features Rotherham resident Mirban Hussain, who attended his LCS appointment in 2023, was referred for a scan, and had a cancerous nodule removed. Mirban said: “I’m so thankful I went to my LCS appointment and I’m so thankful for what it’s done for me and my family.
“If you do get an invite, please, please, please go for your check. It saved my life.”
Watch the 4-minute video here: https://youtu.be/DE257Iz41F4
