Lung cancer is one of the most common types of cancer diagnosed in the UK.
According to Cancer Research UK, approximately 48,500 people are diagnosed with this form of the disease each year.
Due to this, it is important to be aware of warning signs and symptoms of lung cancer, reports the Mirror.
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Experts are now urging people to watch out for early signs of the disease on their nails. This can be done by performing a simple 'finger test'.
Read on below for the information on the finger test, and how to spot the unusual warning sign.
How to check for early signs of lung cancer
To check for the disease, you have to check for a symptom called finger clubbing.
If you press your fingernails together and don't see a tiny diamond-shaped window of light - this could be finger clubbing.
This happens when the ends of your fingers swell up, and experts say this could be a warning sign of lung cancer.
This condition happens in stages, which begins at the base of the nail - which becomes soft.
Then, the skin next to the nail bed becomes shiny, and next, the nails begin to curve more than normal when viewed at a side angle.
Finally, the fingers may get larger and swell due to fluid collecting in the soft tissues of the fingers.
And while not having this gap between your fingernails doesn't automatically mean you have the disease - it is a possible warning sign.
One lung cancer patient Brian Gemmell , whose only symptom of the disease was finger clubbing said: "Go and see your doctor If you’ve got anything that you’re concerned about – that’s what a GP is for.
"Go as soon as you can."
GP Dr Helen Piercy added: "If you notice any signs or symptoms that concern you, see your GP.
"First phone for an appointment. You will be assessed. You will be invited in, if you need to be seen face-to-face. Don’t be afraid. Pick up the phone."
Many people have differing symptoms of lung cancer, and others have none at all - it is better to get things checked out if you are concerned.
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