Lung cancer is frequently diagnosed at a later stage than other cancers because often there are no signs or symptoms at an early stage.
The Targeted Lung Health Check Programme is a new pilot scheme designed to identify signs of cancer at an early stage when it is much more treatable - ultimately saving move lives.
The programme is being offered to people between the ages of 55 and 74 who are current or former smokers and at greater risk of lung cancer. Those eligible will be sent a letter to invite them for a lung health check.
The lung health check finds out how well a participant’s lungs are working and hopes to identify problems early.
Most of the time no issue is found, but if cancer or an issue with a participant’s breathing or lungs is found early, treatment could be simpler and more successful.
Book your Targeted Lung Health Check
If you're aged 55 to 74, a current or former smoker and you're registered with a GP in Birmingham, call 0121 661 1919 today to book your lung health check.
What are lung health checks? Watch the videos below to learn more.
There are two main stages to a Targeted Lung Health Check. The first is an initial assessment with a health professional and the second, if necessary, is a simple scan of the lungs.
If you are eligible, you will receive a letter inviting you for an initial Lung Health Check. This will take place over the phone.
At the Lung Health Check, you will be asked some questions about your breathing, overall lung health, lifestyle and family and medical history.
Measurements of your height and weight will be taken.
The lung cancer scan uses a low-dose CT scanner to take a detailed picture of your lungs, to check for the early signs of lung cancer.
The appointment will last approximately 30 minutes and you’ll have a chance to ask the nurse any questions.
If your scan results come back with signs of anything concerning, you’ll be contacted with further information and referred for further tests and treatment.
The lung scan is on a mobile truck and can take place in a variety of locations including your local hospital, supermarket or local community carpark.
No problems found – the nurse may find nothing further to investigate and you will be discharged from the lung health check programme. We will write to your GP to tell them this.
Referral to your GP – if problem with your breathing or lung health are found, you might be referred to your GP. We will write to your GP so they know about the appointment.
Offered a scan of your lungs - whether you are offered a lung scan will depend on your chance of getting lung cancer now or in the future. We work out your risk from your lifestyle, medical and family history. The nurse will help you to choose whether the test is right for you. We will write to your GP so they know about the appointment.
Learn more about lung health and help to spread the word with the resoures available below.
Learn more about the Targeted Lung Health Check
If you would like to learn more about the Targeted Lung Health Check, we have extra information available.
- Our privacy notice page explains how your information will be used.
Missed your Targeted Lung Health Check?
If you didn't respond to your invite or would like to receive one, please call to speak with a member of our booking team on 0121 661 1919.
If you are aged 55-74, live in Birmingham, and are registered with a GP practice, you are eligible.
The Targeted Lung Health is currently being rolled out in East Birmingham, with plans to expand across the rest of Birmingham in the near future.