Avoid heartsink moments with early detection of lung cancer

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Avoid heartsink moments with early detection of lung cancer

2 August 2023

Jo Scott-Jones

Wednesday 2 August 2023, 12:40 AM

When viewed through the retrospectoscope, warning signs of lung cancer might seem obvious [Image: Chase Clark on Unsplash]

Specialist GP Jo Scott-Jones outlines the risk factors, signs, symptoms and investigations for lung cancer, to aid early diagnosis

Key points, Signs and symptoms of lung cancer can be variable and non-specific, but eight key symptoms have been identified. A negative chest x-ray does not exc, Pract Green w Pale Yellow

Investigations

References

1. Health Research Council. Māori-led trial of lung cancer screening a first for New Zealand. 19 May 2021.

2. Parker K, Dawkins P. Lung cancer: What’s new. Goodfellow Unit webinar, 1 November 2022.

3. BPACnz. Early detection of lung cancer in primary care. 15 March 2021.

4. Dwyer-Hemmings L, Fairhead C. The diagnostic performance of chest radiographs for lung malignancy in symptomatic primary-care populations: A systematic review and meta-analysis. BJR Open 2021;3(1):20210005.

5. Smith CF, Drew S, Ziebland S, Nicholson BD. Understanding the role of GPs’ gut feelings in diagnosing cancer in primary care: a systematic review and meta-analysis of existing evidence. Br J Gen Pract 2020;70(698):e612–21.

6. ECOG-ACRIN Cancer Research Group. ECOG Performance Status Scale.

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