A groundbreaking NHS programme targeting lung health checks is set to save lives in North Cumbria.

This initiative aims to detect early signs of lung cancer, focussing primarily on smokers and former smokers aged 55-74.

The programme will be coordinated by North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust and initially implemented by GP practices.

Patients registered with James St practice in Workington will be the first to receive invitations for the health check.

Further invites for other practices across North Cumbria will be staged from late 2024 into early 2025.

The process begins with a telephone appointment to gauge the risk of lung cancer in eligible patients.

Depending on their risk grade, these participants might be called for a CT scan.

These targeted check-ups aim to attain early detection areas with higher lung cancer-related mortality.

The goal is to diagnose the disease when it's highly treatable and survival rates are better.

Vicky Lamonby, a lung cancer specialist nurse, said: "Lung cancer is a leading cause of death but the earlier it is spotted the easier it is treated, so it's important that if you are invited to a health check that you attend.

"Don't ignore it, it could save your life."

Nonetheless, the checks should not replace seeing a GP if a person experiences symptoms akin to lung cancer.

Ms Lamonby added: "If you have a cough that has lasted more than two weeks, shortness of breath, feeling tired coughing up blood please do not delay in making an appointment to see a GP."

For more details, including FAQs, visit roycastle.org.