Woman who thought she had bad cough diagnosed with 'UK's deadliest cancer'
22.08.2022 - 17:45
/ dailyrecord.co.uk
A woman says she feels ‘lucky to be alive’ after a life-saving screening led to doctors diagnosing her with the UK's deadliest cancer. Karen McCarthy had been suffering with a bad chest infection for two weeks when she made an appointment to see her GP.
Because she was over 60, Karen was sent for an X-ray and later given the devastating news that she was suffering from lung cancer. She was scheduled for surgery and part of her lung removed which had a "small, non-aggressive tumour", Manchester Evening News reports.
NHS bosses are now urging those with certain symptoms not to delay checks that can catch lung cancer early - when it is easier to treat. Recalling her diagnosis in 2018, Karen said: "It was a scary time but now I feel lucky to be alive.
"I’ve recovered well although I have noticed a difference in my energy levels compared to before cancer - but being four years older could play a part in that. I’m extremely grateful to my doctor who sent me for a life-saving lung screening which has allowed me to see the next generations of my family grow up.”
The north west suffers a rate of lung cancer which is higher than anywhere else in the country, according to Dr Michael Gregory, the region’s NHS medical director. Lung cancer is the biggest cause of cancer deaths in England, but figures suggest people at risk might not be coming forward for help.
Now, Karen - a beloved aunt to three adult nieces and two adult nephews and great aunt to six - is encouraging others to speak to their GP if they notice symptoms. She said: “If you have lungs, you can get lung cancer, even if you’re young and don’t smoke. It’s really important to speak to your GP if you notice any changes to your lungs and breathing, such as a persistent cough.
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