Oncologist says 'do not simply wait' if you have lung cancer symptom

Oncologist says 'do not simply wait' if you have lung cancer symptom Dr Jiri Kubes has spoken following the diagnosis of Pope Leo XIV Pope Leo XIV’s cancer diagnosis has put the spotlight on a worrying reality: lung cancer can develop without obvious symptoms, meaning some people may not realise anything is wrong until the disease is discovered during tests for another reason. The 71-year-old pontiff was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma after doctors spotted an abnormality during routine abdominal examinations. His surgeon, Professor Stefano Margaritora, revealed that the discovery was accidental and that the Pope had felt perfectly well, with no respiratory symptoms. The Pope subsequently underwent surgery to remove the lower lobe of his right lung and made his first public appearance following the operation on Sunday, October 18. But what signs should people look out for - and when should they seek medical advice? Dr Jiri Kubes, medical director of Proton Therapy Center in Prague, said recognising changes in your health was important, even if they initially seem relatively minor. He said: “Lung cancer does not always cause obvious symptoms in its early stages. That can make it difficult to detect and it is one reason why people should not dismiss persistent or unusual changes in their health. “Although many symptoms associated with lung cancer can have less serious causes, getting them checked promptly is important. If cancer is found, the stage at diagnosis can influence which treatments are available.” Oncologist's seven lung cancer symptoms you should never ignore According to the NHS, symptoms can vary and some people may have none in the early stages. Warning signs include: A cough that will not go away A cough lasting more than three weeks should be checked by your GP, particularly if it is getting worse or has changed from your usual cough. Coughing up blood Even small spots or streaks of blood in your phlegm need urgent medical advice. Do not assume it is simply irritation from coughing. Breathlessness Getting unusually short of breath during everyday activities, or noticing that existing breathlessness is worsening, warrants medical attention. Repeated chest infections Chest infections that keep returning, or one that does not clear up as expected, should be investigated. Unexplained weight loss Losing weight without changing your diet or activity levels can be a sign of an underlying health problem and should be checked. Persistent chest or shoulder pain Pain in the chest or shoulder, particularly if it is persistent or worsens when breathing or coughing, is another possible warning sign. Constant tiredness or loss of appetite Feeling unusually exhausted or losing your appetite without an obvious explanation can also occur with lung cancer, particularly alongside other symptoms. Dr Kubes added: “Having one or more of these symptoms does not mean you have cancer. However, if something persists, gets worse or feels unusual for you, do not simply wait for it to disappear. “Lung cancer can also affect people who have never smoked. Smoking is the biggest risk factor, but it is not the only one, so it is important not to dismiss concerning symptoms based on your smoking history.” The NHS advises anyone with a cough lasting longer than three weeks or other possible lung cancer symptoms to contact their GP. Anyone coughing up blood should seek urgent medical advice. The Pope’s experience is a reminder that lung cancer is not always obvious. Knowing the warning signs - and acting on them - could make an important difference.