People in Greater Manchester and Salford are being encouraged to attend their NHS Lung Cancer Screening appointment as part of a new awareness campaign launched during Pride Month.
The campaign is a partnership between Greater Manchester Cancer Alliance and OUTPatients, the UK’s LGBTIQ+ cancer charity.
Research shows that people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex or queer (LGBTIQ+) are more likely to smoke than the general population. This means they may have a higher risk of developing lung cancer.
The campaign also aims to address concerns that some people in the LGBTIQ+ community may delay seeking medical help, even when they are feeling unwell.
To help shape the campaign, OUTPatients worked with people from across Greater Manchester to understand their experiences and concerns about healthcare and lung cancer screening.
Throughout June, campaign messages will appear across Manchester’s Gay Village, including posters, bus stop adverts, drink mats and information in pub washrooms. Information will also be shared at Pride events across Greater Manchester, beginning with Salford Pride on 13 June.
What is NHS Lung Cancer Screening?
NHS Lung Cancer Screening is designed to find signs of lung cancer at an early stage, often before symptoms develop.
Finding lung cancer early can make treatment more successful and improve outcomes.
If you are invited for screening, it is important to attend your appointment, even if you feel well.
Who can have lung cancer screening?
You may be invited for NHS Lung Cancer Screening if all of the following apply:
- You are aged 55 to 74
- You are registered with a GP practice in Greater Manchester
- You currently smoke or have smoked in the past
Your sexuality or gender identity does not affect your eligibility.
A safe and supportive service
The NHS Lung Cancer Screening service is welcoming, supportive and non-judgemental.
If you have any concerns about attending, or if you feel worried or uncomfortable, you can speak openly with the screening team. They are there to support you and answer your questions.
Find out more
This campaign relates to NHS Lung Cancer Screening in Greater Manchester.
For more information, speak to your GP practice or visit the NHS website.
Early detection saves lives. If you receive an invitation, attending your appointment could make a real difference to your health.