Lung cancer is preventable

THE Irish Cancer Society Lung Cancer Awareness Campaign to identify patients with lung cancer early is very welcome.

However, it is important that the key message about lung cancer is not lost — this is a preventable cancer.

If you don’t smoke, and if you are not exposed to someone else’s smoke, you are highly unlikely to get lung cancer.

So for smokers, in order to avoid or reduce your risk of getting lung cancer, and the risk of those around you — quit smoking today. It is important that smokers keep trying to quit, even if they have been unsuccessful in the past.

Your GP, pharmacist or local health centre will be able to help you succeed. In addition, www.giveupsmoking.ie or the National Smokers’ Quitline (1850 201 203) also provide excellent support.

Dr Fenton Howell

Royal College of Physicians of Ireland

Frederick House

19 South Frederick Street

Dublin 2