'Catching symptoms early can save a life' - Dunblane lung cancer survivor's vital message

dailyrecord.co.uk:

A Dunblane lung cancer survivor is backing a national campaign to encourage people with possible symptoms of lung cancer to get checked without delay.The Scottish Government’s ‘Settling In’ campaign, urges people to contact their GP practice if they have unusual breathlessness or a new or different persistent cough for more than three weeks.These symptoms can be early signs of lung cancer, especially if aged over 40.Bill Culbard spoke this week of his gratitude that his diagnosis and subsequent successful treatment over 20 years ago has allowed him to work, travel, and watch his family grow.He was joined by other lung cancer survivors from across Scotland who have shared their experiences of diagnosis and treatment to help reassure those who may be worried about taking that first step.Lung cancer is the most common cancer in Scotland, with 5,3001 people on average diagnosed each year.However latest figures show that there have been significant improvements in the proportion of people surviving in recent years, with more curative treatments available when the disease is found at an earlier stage.Bill (79) from Dunblane was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2000 after a family friend noticed his persistent cough, and along with his wife Gwen, encouraged him to make an appointment with his GP practice.Click here for more news and sport from the Stirling area.His GP initially referred him for an x-ray, which showed a shadow across his lung.

Following other tests, Bill received chemotherapy and radiotherapy.He received the news that the cancer had gone a year after his diagnosis and had returned to work shortly after his treatment finished.He said: “Being diagnosed with cancer will always be a big deal and a huge worry, but if