Fantastic response to vital lung health checks in Burnley

A free NHS targeted lung health check has received a fantastic response from people in Burnley with two-thirds of those invited saying yes to taking part in the vital check.  

The Lancashire and South Cumbria targeted lung health check (TLHC) programme began inviting 7,813 eligible people in Burnley who are current or former smokers aged between 55 and 74 to attend the check last November. 

The invite for the check, described as an ‘MOT for the lungs’ was accepted by more than 5,000 people which has led to 1,500 people being referred for a low-dose CT scan and 10 cases of cancer being found.  

Dr John Howells, clinical lead for Targeted Lung Health Checks, said: “Targeted lung health checks are saving lives in Lancashire, the response we have had from people in Burnley has been fantastic. 68% of people we invited agreed to take part and I hope even more will say ‘yes’ when we begin inviting those who are eligible in Hyndburn soon. Most patients received a clean bill of health and valuable peace of mind but for those who do require further treatment, we have a better chance if we find it early, often when there are no symptoms.”

The checks take place in two stages: a 20-minute telephone consultation with a nurse followed by a low-dose CT scan for those identified as being at risk of lung cancer.

Dr Howells said: “We are seeing more and more people grasping the opportunity to get checked out and it is helping us spot problems sooner. If you are invited to take part please say yes. Early diagnosis saves lives.”

TLHCs went live across Blackpool and Blackburn with Darwen in 2021, before being introduced to other parts of East Lancashire throughout 2022.

More information on the Targeted Lung Health Check programme is available at: https://lungcheckslsc.co.uk/