Make it easier for those with lung cancer symptoms to get tests, experts say
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More people with lung cancer symptoms in the UK should be able to self-refer for tests rather than wait for their GP to request them, experts have suggested. It should be “easier” for those with symptoms of the disease to get chest x-rays and help speed up diagnosis, according to researchers.
In analysis published in the British Journal of General Practice, academics and medics, along with the charity Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation, called for the widespread adoption of services that allow patients to self-refer without a GP consultation.
Experts cited self-request chest x-ray services which have been established in a number of locations, including Leeds and Greater Manchester. Under the schemes, patients with symptoms such as a persistent cough, tiredness and difficulty breathing can access radiology services directly, with the report of their x-ray sent to their GP.
The authors claim the wider rollout of these services “warrants urgent consideration” given the “present difficulties patients face in accessing primary care”. The analysis also suggests the number of lung cancer cases picked up from self-referral is similar to those referred by a GP.
Dr Stephen Bradley, lead author of the paper and a practising GP in Leeds, said: “A lung cancer diagnosis can be devastating but spotting it early can make all the difference. “We’ve made a lot of progress, but there is so much more we need to do to diagnose it as quickly as possible.”.
