Lung cancer is the third most common cancer in the UK, with around 48,600 people diagnosed with the condition each year.
While it can be hard to spot lung cancer straight away as there are usually no symptoms in the early stages, it is important to remain aware of potential warning signs.
It is also important to understand possible risk factors, as those who are at higher risk for the condition may want to get them selves checked out.
It comes after a 55-year-old dad from Cumbernauld sadly lost his life to lung cancer after going to the doctors to get his sore back checked out.
Malcolm MacKay had also been feeling tired and was suffering from breathlessness, but put his symptoms down to his asthma.
He was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer and passed away eight weeks after diagnosis in the early hours of Sunday, August 21.
After reading about Malcolm's story, some may want to know more about lung cancer symptoms and risk factors. Here is key information about the condition.
Lung cancer symptoms
There are usually no signs or symptoms in the early stages of lung cancer. Many lung cancer warning signs can also be caused by other medical conditions.
However it is important to flag any changes that you experience to your GP as spotting lung cancer early can mean that it's easier to treat.
According to Scotland's NHS Inform, the main symptoms of lung cancer are:
- a cough that doesn’t go away after 2 or 3 weeks
- a long-standing cough that gets worse
- persistent chest infections
- coughing up blood
- an ache or pain when breathing or coughing
- persistent breathlessness
- persistent tiredness or lack of energy
- loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss
Less common symptoms of lung cancer include:
- Finger clubbing - this may include your fingers becoming more curved or their ends becoming larger
- a high temperature of 38C or above
- difficulty swallowing or pain when swallowing
- wheezing
- a hoarse voice
- swelling of your face or neck
- persistent chest or shoulder pain
If you are experiencing one or a number of these symptoms, you should get in touch with your GP who will examine you. If needed, they may carry out further tests or refer you to a specialist.
Dr Michael Gregory of the NHS says: "Early diagnosis saves countless lives every year, so it is important that should you have any symptoms of lung cancer, including a continuous cough or breathlessness, to come forward as soon as possible and speak to the staff at your general practice.
"It’s probably nothing to worry about, but if it is cancer, diagnosing it early could save your life."
Lung cancer risk factors
Those who smoke are at an increased risk of developing lung cancer, as around seven out of 10 lung cancers are caused by smoking. This includes breathing in other people’s cigarette smoke.
Additionally age is a relevant risk factor, as around 45 out of 100 people diagnosed with lung cancer in the UK are aged 75 and older.
According to Cancer Research UK, other causes or risk factors include:
- exposure to radon gas
- exposure to certain chemicals in the workplace
- a family history of lung cancer
- cancer treatment for other types of cancer
Having these risk factors doesn't mean that you will get lung cancer, however if you are at an increased risk of developing lung cancer you should remain vigilant and get checked if you experience any possible symptoms.
Malcolm's family are now raising funds for his funeral. If you would like to donate to the family's fundraiser, click here.
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