A successful lung health initiative is being widened across Norfolk and Waveney after proving effective in detecting cancer at earlier stages. The programme, aimed at smokers and former smokers aged 55 to 74, first began in Great Yarmouth in 2022 before moving into Lowestoft. It will now be available to thousands more residents across the region.
Figures from NHS Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care Board reveal that, of 8,000 people who underwent checks, 70 cases of lung cancer were identified. Encouragingly, 70% of these diagnoses were made at an early stage when treatment is most effective. Dr Suzanne Phillips, from the ICB, said the response so far has been “fantastic”, and that the expansion would help more people benefit from potentially life-saving scans.
The rollout is being introduced in phases, with eligible individuals invited directly. Dr Phillips emphasised the importance of waiting for an invitation before booking, adding that lung cancer often has few warning signs in its early stages, making proactive screening essential.
To mark the expansion, a community event will be held on Tuesday 26 August at the TIC mobile unit, located in Sainsbury’s car park on King’s Lynn’s Hardwick industrial estate. Running from 10:00 to 13:00, the event will offer free health checks and provide information on the screening process.
