Certain type of cough that the could mean you're suffering from lung cancer

Certain type of cough that the could mean you're suffering from lung cancer The NHS has shared information about the certain types of coughs that could mean you're suffering from lung cancer. The symptoms come as journalist and TV presenter Dame Esther Rantzen died from the disease this week Sad news broke this week that Dame Esther Rantzen passed away on 30 September 2026, aged 86, in the New Forest, England. The renowned journalist and television presenter lost her battle with stage four lung cancer after a three-year fight, having first received her diagnosis in January 2023. With this in mind, we're highlighting the key warning signs of lung cancer that you should never ignore. The NHS shared a post on Instagram eight weeks ago detailing the symptoms of the disease, in recognition of World Lung Cancer Day. The caption read: "If you notice any of these signs and symptoms, contact your GP. "It could be nothing serious, but early diagnosis and treatment of cancer can save lives." The symptoms the post urged people to be vigilant about included a cough lasting three weeks or more, a persistent cough that worsens over time, recurring chest infections, and coughing up blood. It is equally important to be aware of an ache or pain when breathing or coughing, persistent breathlessness or fatigue, and a loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss. Between 33,000 and 35,000 people in the UK lose their lives to lung cancer every year. According to Cancer Research UK, lung cancer is the single biggest cause of cancer-related death in the UK, accounting for approximately 21% — or 1 in 5 — of all cancer deaths. This translates to roughly 90 people dying from the disease every single day across the UK. Approximately 48,000 to 50,000 new lung cancer cases are diagnosed in the UK each year. Cancer Research UK states that approximately 79% of lung cancer cases are preventable, with smoking continuing to be the leading risk factor. In the UK, diagnosing lung cancer depends on identifying warning signs early, alongside a growing national targeted screening programme. The UK operates a Targeted Lung Health Check (TLHC) model instead of a universal population-wide screening initiative. Current eligibility covers individuals aged 55 to 74 who are registered with a GP and are either current or former smokers. A nurse or health professional conducts a telephone or face-to-face risk assessment, enquiring about medical history, lifestyle, and breathing. If deemed high risk, you are offered a low-dose CT scan. These are frequently carried out in mobile community units (such as supermarket car parks) or local hospitals. Results are received within four weeks. Should abnormalities or nodules be found, additional tests or direct specialist referrals are arranged straight away. The rollout across NHS England is steadily expanding, with comparable targeted screening frameworks being introduced across Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.