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Be Clear on Cancer roadshow
visits Birkenhead to raise awareness of lung disease symptoms
THE Be Clear on Cancer roadshow, part
of a Public Health England campaign, will be visiting the Pyramid Shopping
Centre in Birkenhead this month.
The campaign will raise awareness that a persistent cough, or getting out of
breath doing everyday things such as vacuuming or walking up a short flight of
stairs, could be a sign of lung cancer or other lung disease. Breathlessness can
also be a sign of heart disease. The event will encourage anyone who notices
these symptoms to visit their GP as finding these conditions early makes them
more treatable.
The most recent data reveals that in Wirral:-
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Around 280 people are diagnosed with lung cancer each year.
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Around 8,000 people have COPD (chronic
obstructive pulmonary disease; a common form of lung disease that includes
emphysema and chronic bronchitis).
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9 out of 10 cases of COPD are caused by
smoking.
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Around 13,070 local people have coronary heart
disease.
The Be Clear on Cancer roadshow is touring the country and will be in Birkenhead
at the Pyramid Shopping Centre on Friday, 16 September 2016 and also on Saturday, 17 September
2016.
At the event, leaflets will be distributed that provide information on lung
disease, including lung cancer, and heart disease. A nurse will also be on hand
to talk to anyone who has any questions.
Early diagnosis of these conditions has the potential to save lives and improve
the quality of life of those living with long term conditions, such as COPD. The
earlier heart disease is diagnosed the better; treatment can help manage
symptoms and reduce the chance of a heart attack.
Fiona Johnstone, Director of Public Health, Wirral Council said:-
"Spotting the signs of heart and respiratory diseases early makes them
more treatable. A persistent cough or breathlessness might not be anything
serious, and more often than not there is nothing to worry about, but don't try
and diagnose yourself, visit the roadshow on the 16 and 17 September or see your
doctor to find out for sure."
The nationwide Be Clear on Cancer campaign is running until October 16. For
further information about the signs and symptoms of lung cancer, other lung
diseases and heart disease, search:- 'Be Clear on Cancer.' |
