Lung Cancer Awareness Month: The future of screening to help save lives and the support available to those living with the disease

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. While smoking is a major contributor, it’s not the only risk. 

Exposure to asbestos, silica and other carcinogens, such as in the workplace, is well established; and growing concerns around air pollution and microplastics are prompting fresh questions about other potential causes.

Whatever the cause, one thing is clear: everyone at risk of lung cancer deserves fair access to screening, diagnosis and treatment. That’s how we will continue to improve outcomes and save lives.

Since the UK National Screening Committee approved a national lung cancer screening programme in 2022, attention has now turned to its progress and what comes next.

Where are we now?

The impact of lung cancer screening is already significant. More than 8,000 diagnoses have been made because of the screening program - and over 60% of those were caught at stage 1 and over 10% at stage 2 – earlier stages of cancer where the chances of survival are greater.

Just three years ago, only around 30% of cases were diagnosed at stage 1. That’s a remarkable shift and one that puts the UK ahead of many other countries in delivering effective, life-changing screening.

Importantly, the programme has prioritised rollout in areas with the highest levels of deprivation and lung cancer incidences, helping to reduce health inequalities.

Yet challenges remain. Despite meeting the criteria of being a current or former smoker aged 55 to 74, many people still don’t attend. It’s estimated that over 40% of those at highest risk aren’t engaging with the programme.

Healthcare professionals, charities and advocates are working hard to reach these individuals and ensure full national rollout by 2030. If not, a proposed delay in the rollout to 2035 could result in 4,200 lives being lost. 

Looking ahead: What more can be done?

There’s also growing interest in expanding the eligibility criteria. Many people aged over 74 are diagnosed with lung cancer and would extending the upper age limit to 80 offer greater benefits? 

With an ageing population, many of whom are active and well, it’s a question worth exploring. However, research shows that screening isn’t suitable for everyone over 74, so any changes must be thoroughly researched.

There’s also concern for those who don’t meet the current criteria, such as non-smokers, who may still develop lung cancer and their stories highlight the need for a more inclusive approach.

I recently spoke to patient advocate and adventurer Jackie Head and her personal experience shows how early detection can save lives.

The importance of data and early detection

Clinical experts and NHS England have also emphasised the value of the data being collected. It’s helping us better understand who is at risk and how we can intervene earlier.

As a specialist solicitor, I’ve also seen the difference lung cancer screening can make. My client, Rose Hall was diagnosed with mesothelioma through a screening pilot in Leeds before she had any symptoms. That early diagnosis meant treatment could be planned and started before the disease progressed, which is sadly not always the case with mesothelioma or lung cancer.

Rose was also able to access Irwin Mitchell's expert legal advice early on which was invaluable due to the challenging aspects of her claim. 

When her claim was settled, it gave her peace of mind knowing she had financial security and access to funds for future treatment not available on the NHS, as well as care and support. Rose was also encouraged to connect with charities and healthcare professionals to ensure she had the right support following her diagnosis and in the future. 

Screening is also identifying other respiratory conditions and could give people diagnosed with silicosis and other asbestosis better access to care, treatment and improve their quality of life.

Some screening questionnaires now ask about past asbestos exposure and these prompts will encourage people to reflect on their work history and consider whether their respiratory conditions could be linked to current or future health issues. This could open the door to early legal advice for others, helping individuals secure financial support and protection.

Changing outcomes for good

To truly transform outcomes, lung cancer screening must be embedded in the national cancer strategy. That means sustained investment in funding, workforce capacity and prevention, especially smoking cessation.

If you’re invited to attend a lung cancer screening, don’t delay. Encourage your loved ones to do the same. Be aware of the support available. We all have a role to play in raising awareness and making early detection accessible.

This Lung Cancer Awareness Month, let’s turn awareness into action. Whether it’s attending a screening, sharing information, or supporting someone at risk, small actions can make big differences. Together, we can help more people live longer, healthier lives.