People in Blackpool who received a Targeted Lung Health Check two years ago are being invited to return for a two-year lung health check.
Two years ago, current or former smokers aged between 55 and 74 in Blackpool were invited for a Targeted Lung Health Check by the NHS to help spot the early signs of lung cancer and other issues.
Eligible people were first offered a 10-minute consultation with a trained healthcare professional about their lifestyle and smoking history.
Anyone identified as being at risk of lung cancer was offered a low-dose CT scan and referred for further treatment if necessary.
Now, people who had an initial CT scan are being invited back for a routine follow-up scan to check the ongoing health of their lungs and identify any issues that might have developed since their first check two years ago.
Scans are being offered at a mobile CT scanner at Mecca Bingo, Blackpool.
While most people who take part receive a clean bill of health, a small minority require further treatment.
The Targeted Lung Health Check programme is currently available in 43 areas of the UK and estimates that it will diagnose around 9,000 early-stage cancers, offering the opportunity for earlier interventions, including curative surgery, which will save lives. Stop smoking advice will also be offered to support current smokers.
It is vitally important that people attend these follow-up scans so please encourage anyone you work with who receives an invitation letter to do so.
For more information on the Targeted Lung Health Check programme, please visit lancashireandsouthcumbria.icb.nhs.uk/tlhc.
