Cancer Research UK campaign leads to rise in lung cancer diagnoses

Cancer Research UK has released new data showing how one of its recent Be Clear on Cancer campaigns has made an appreciable impact on lung cancer diagnoses.

Published in the British Journal of Cancer, the study shows that more than 3,000 extra referrals were made by GPs as a direct result of the campaign, which encouraged people with persistent coughs to see their doctors as soon as possible.

This is an increase of more than 30 per cent in referrals during the months surrounding the campaign – May to July 2012 – compared with the same three-month period the year before.

Moreover, 700 extra patients were diagnosed with lung cancer and nearly 300 more patients received surgery, while a survey indicated that the campaign had helped more people understand that a persistent cough is a warning sign of lung cancer.

Harpal Kumar, Cancer Research UK's chief executive, said: "This proves just how successful a simple campaign alerting people to be vigilant about persistent coughing can be."

The Be Clear on Cancer campaign debuted in 2010 and is conducted by Cancer Research UK in partnership with the Department of Health, Public Health England and NHS England.