The number of patients who are having their lung cancer detected in stage one has increased by nearly 25%, according to figure released by the Scottish Government.
Latest statistics show that the percentage of patients diagnosed with lung cancer at the earliest stage has increased by 24.7 per cent since the launch of the Scottish Government’s Detect Cancer Early programme in 2012.
The campaign, fronted by Sir Alex Ferguson, aims to increase the proportion of people who are diagnosed in the early stages of breast, bowel and lung cancer.
It is estimated that patients are 20 times more likely to survive lung cancer if it is detected at an early stage compared to a late stage 2, which is why the campaign encourages people with a three week cough to see their GP.
Speaking ahead of the Scotland Against Cancer conference in Edinburgh today, Health Secretary Shona Robison said:
“The earlier we detect cancer, the higher the chance of survival.
“We need to get the message out loud and clear that the earlier you come forward to get checked or be screened, the better. It could save your life.
“That is why this increase in early detection of lung cancer is important news. The support and involvement of Sir Alex Ferguson helps show what a difference this kind of clear messaging can make.
“We also know that fear is a barrier to people presenting with potential symptoms and attending cancer screening. To help improve survival rates, this generalised fear of ‘the Big C’ needs to be addressed.
“We will go on investing in early detection and campaigns like this with the clear aim of boosting early detection and improving survival rates even further.”
