Lung cancer screening programme detects 180 cases

About 70% of the cancers were found were still in an early stage

More than 180 cases of lung cancer have been detected thanks to an NHS screening programme.

South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust launched the Lung Health Check scheme in October 2022 and since then more than 35,000 people have used the service.

The trust said about 70% of the cancers found were at an early stage, making them more treatable.

Helen Bone, a manager at the screening programme, said the check-ups had led to some "fantastic outcomes" and patients requiring treatment were grateful their cancer had been caught early.

'Amazing response'

"The programme is designed to be accessible, with a strong community focus, and it's been amazing to see how many people have responded," she added.

"If you receive an invitation for a Lung Health Check please don't ignore it - it could save your life."

The screening process involves an initial telephone call followed by a lung scan which takes place in hospital.

Check-ups are available to people registered with a Sunderland or South Tyneside GP, aged between 55 and 74, and who are current or ex-smokers.