Key Points
- Free lung cancer screening, called Lung Health Checks, offered to current and former cigarette or shisha smokers aged 55-74 in Westhoughton, Bolton this autumn.
- The checks aim to detect lung cancer at an early, more treatable stage to improve survival chances.
- The programme is part of the Greater Manchester Lung Cancer Screening Programme, rolling out gradually across Bolton and Greater Manchester.
- Screening includes a nurse consultation for risk assessment and, if high risk, a low-dose CT scan of the lungs offered on the same day.
- Eligible residents are invited by post or text message when the screening comes to their area.
- The mobile clinic will be located in Westhoughton during the offer period.
- Those who miss initial appointments can rebook by calling the programme’s booking line.
- Clinical Lead Dr Tarek Bakht emphasises the importance of attending the screening to aid early detection and potentially save lives.
- Over 700 lung cancer cases have already been diagnosed in Greater Manchester via this programme, with most caught at early stages.
- Lung cancer detected early results in a significantly higher five-year survival rate.
- Individuals with concerning symptoms are advised to consult their GP regardless of eligibility for screening.
What Is the Lung Cancer Screening Offer for Westhoughton, Bolton Residents?
As reported by the Greater Manchester Cancer Alliance on their website, people in Westhoughton, Bolton who are current or former cigarette and shisha smokers aged 55 to 74 are being invited to free lung cancer screenings this autumn as part of the ongoing Greater Manchester Lung Cancer Screening Programme (GMCLSP). This initiative aims to detect lung cancer early to improve treatment outcomes and save lives.
The Lung Health Checks involve an initial consultation with a specialist nurse, where participants answer questions about their health and lifestyle to assess their risk level. Those deemed at high risk will be offered a low-dose computed tomography (CT) scan of their lungs immediately on a mobile clinic truck stationed in the local area.
How Is the Screening Programme Being Delivered Locally in Westhoughton?
According to Dalefield Surgery's NHS announcement, the mobile clinic providing Lung Health Checks will be based at a designated location in Westhoughton, allowing easy access for local residents. Invitations to eligible individuals will be sent by post or via text message when the screening service arrives at their Primary Care Network area.
Residents who have already been invited but missed their appointment are encouraged to contact the booking team at 0161 529 0900 to reschedule. The checks operate Monday to Saturday from 8am to 8pm, making it convenient for residents to find suitable times.
Why Is Early Lung Cancer Detection Important?
Dr Tarek Bakht, Clinical Lead for Cancer at NHS Greater Manchester Integrated Care Board, stated the importance of the programme, saying:
“Lung Health Checks help the NHS to spot any lung cancer symptoms earlier, when it is much more treatable. Please do come along for your appointment. It could save your life”.
The Greater Manchester Lung Cancer Screening Programme has already diagnosed over 700 patients with lung cancer, with nearly 80% caught at stage 1 or 2—the stages where curative treatment is most effective. Early detection significantly increases the chances of survival: individuals diagnosed at the earliest stage are nearly 20 times more likely to survive for five years compared to those diagnosed at a later stage.
Who Is Eligible for the Lung Health Checks?
The lung cancer screening is specifically targeted at people aged 55 to 74 who are current or former smokers of cigarettes or shisha and are registered with a participating GP practice in Bolton, including Westhoughton. The programme is being expanded gradually to other parts of Bolton and Greater Manchester, with more people invited as the rollout continues.
What Should People Do If They Have Symptoms But Are Not Yet Invited?
While the Lung Health Checks provide targeted early diagnosis, people who are concerned about symptoms suggestive of lung cancer should consult their GP as soon as possible, regardless of screening eligibility. GPs can arrange appropriate tests and referrals as needed.
How Can Residents Get More Information or Book Their Appointment?
Eligible residents will receive their invitations via post or text message from the programme team. If they have questions or need to reschedule, the Lung Health Check booking line can be called at 0161 529 0900.
Further details about the programme are available on the Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust’s dedicated Lung Health Check webpage at.
This lung cancer screening initiative in Westhoughton is part of a wider effort by the Greater Manchester Cancer Alliance and NHS partners to reduce lung cancer mortality through earlier detection accessible within the community. Residents who smoke or have smoked are strongly encouraged to take advantage of this potentially life-saving service this autumn