People most at risk of lung cancer in Havering can now take advantage of a new, free opportunity to get checked for the disease.
Those aged between 55 and 74 who are current or former smokers are being sent invitations to get their lungs scanned at an InHealth lung check.
To mark the rollout of lung checks in the borough, Mayor of Havering Gerry O’Sullivan joined NHS representatives at an official launch event yesterday (Monday 25 November) in the car park at Tesco Extra in Rainham where the scans are taking place.
More than 14,000 people in Havering should expect to receive an invitation to a lung check appointment over the next 12 months. These are arranged by invite only and letters are currently being sent out to those who are eligible. It is really important that people follow the instructions in the letter and keep their appointment.
This is part of a national NHS initiative called the Targeted Lung Health Check Programme, and it is now available in Havering for the first time.
The lung health check takes place in two stages. The first is an initial phone assessment with a specially trained health care professional. If the assessment finds the person to be at high risk, they are offered a low dose CT (computerised tomography) scan of the lungs for further investigation.
Scans are simple and safe, and they will be taking place for those who are invited in a dedicated scanning truck located in the car park of the Tesco Extra store in Bridge Road, Rainham, RM13 9YZ.
Dr Stephanie Uys, Clinical Lead for the Targeted Lung Health Check Programme in north east London, said: “We have so far provided over 10,000 local residents with life-saving scans and we encourage Havering residents to have a scan when they are invited to.
“Most of the time nothing is found, but if there are any problems with your lungs, such as cancer, finding out early can make treatment simpler and more successful.”
The Targeted Lung Health Check programme also aims to promote healthier lifestyles, with advice about stopping smoking, and as part of this people will be encouraged to get in touch with their local stop smoking services.
