Persistent Cough Lasting For More than Three Weeks Could Signal Lung Cancer

A new study claims that people with persistent cough lasting for more than three weeks should see their doctor as it could be a symptom of lung cancer.

An awareness campaign 'Be Clear on Cancer' was launched on July 2, 2013, to raise awareness about symptoms of lung cancer. This campaign has been developed for breast, bowel, esophagus-gastric and ovarian cancers.

 "More people die from lung cancer than any other cancer in England, but many people don't know the signs and symptoms that could save their lives. The message from this campaign is clear - if you have a persistent cough, go and see your doctor. The earlier lung cancer is diagnosed, the more likely that treatment will be successful," Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt was quoted in Daily Mail stating

 In the year 2009, nearly 205,974 people were diagnosed with lung cancer, and 158,081 people died from it. It is the second most diagnosed cancer in both men and women. The main cause for lung cancer is cigarette smoking. It can also happen on exposure to tobacco that is used in pipes and cigars, second-hand smoking and exposure to asbestos, reports Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

In people suffering with lung cancer the symptoms don't show up until the cancer is advanced. But some of the symptoms that signal the existence of lung cancer are; a continuous cough that doesn't go away, chest pain, wheezing, coughing blood, shortness in breath, fatigue and sudden weight loss. These symptoms can exist along with other illnesses. Consulting your GP if any of these symptoms exist is the right thing to do.

The "Be Clear on Cancer" campaign led by the Public Health England is functioning with the Department of Health and NHS England. It will run during July and August. Adverts will appear on TV, radio, magazines and newspapers spreading awareness on the early symptoms of lung cancer with the goal of saving more lives.

Professor Kevin Fenton, Director of Health and Wellbeing at Public Health England said, "Only by increasing awareness of potential symptoms, and encouraging people to visit their doctor sooner rather than later, will we see the number of early diagnoses, and people surviving the disease, start to rise."