Teesside smokers and ex-smokers ignoring invite for lung cancer check

Former cancer patient Joan Calvert with her letter inviting her for a lung check

Almost 10,000 smokers and ex-smokers have ignored a letter inviting them to have a free lung cancer check, according to a health trust.

More than 24,600 people on Teesside were sent the letters but 40% did not respond despite the disease being curable if caught early.

A Teesside NHS spokesperson said 81 patients in the area had had a recent diagnosis and were getting treatment.

Ex-smoker Joan Calvert's cancer was caught early and is in remission.

The 72-year-old, from Thornaby, quit smoking more than a decade ago after having a heart attack but decided to go for the check as a precaution.

'Painless and quick'

"I was shocked to be told it was cancer as I hadn't smoked in years," she said.

"My initial CT scan showed nodules in my right lung and after further check-ups, scans and a biopsy I was referred for surgery to remove the cancer. The care I received was amazing.

"I dread to think what might've happened if I hadn't accepted the offer of a scan. So if you do get the letter, please respond - have it done, it's painless, it's quick and it could save your life."

Thousands on Teesside have been sent letters urging them get screened

Teesside has one of the highest mortality rates for lung cancer in England and South Tees Hospitals and North Tees and Hartlepool trusts were among 43 chosen in 2022 to run targeted lung health check pilots.

Lung cancer rarely presents any symptoms at its early stages.

However, those diagnosed with the disease early are almost 20 times more likely to survive for five years than if it is caught later, according to a spokesperson for the NHS North East and Cumbria.

Dr Janet Walker, medical director of the North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board, said: "We've had 81 diagnosed with cancer and many of them have been diagnosed at an early stage.

"Many have also already had that curative surgery, which is fantastic. So why wouldn't you - when your letter comes landing on your door map - open it?" she said.

"Go through the process and take the opportunity to be tested."

Dr Janet Walker said the sooner the disease is diagnosed the more quickly it can be treated