Lothians women ignoring cancer risk

WOMEN in the Lothians are underestimating the risks of lung cancer, a leading charity has said.

According to the Roy Castle Foundation, hardly any females in the area realised it was the most likely cancer to kill them, and many said they would not see a doctor if they experienced symptoms of it.

While more cases of higher-profile diseases like breast cancer are recorded locally, survival rates for lung cancer are significantly worse, making it the biggest killer.

Dr Marian Nicolson, a consultant medical oncologist working with the charity, said: “The fact that the majority of women do not recognise the seriousness of a diagnosis of lung cancer is a concern.

“Most women know about self-examination for breast cancer and to seek immediate medical advice.

“The results of the survey show women are less likely to see their doctor if they display symptoms of lung cancer.”