TARGETED LUNG HEALTH CHECK PROGRAMME

The NHS Targeted Lung Health Check is a programme designed to identify and treat lung cancer at an early stage, particularly in individuals aged 55-74 who have ever smoked. The programme aims to detect lung cancer before symptoms develop, improving success rates.

Patients aged 55-74 who are a current or former smoker and are registered with a GP will receive an invite letter through the post in a YELLOW envelope from the NHS. The patient will then be called by a patient care advisor within 14 days to complete an assessment over the telephone which will take approximately 15 minutes. During the telephone call patients will be asked questions about their overall lung health, lifestyle, family and medical history. Patients may then be invited to have a lung CT scan. Scans will take place on mobile vans in community locations (Tesco Car Park, Broadbridge Heath). Their results will be sent by a letter and if a follow up is needed, the team will contact the patient to talk about what the next steps are.

In the majority of cases no further action is needed. If the patients lungs are fine, they will be offered another health check in 2 years to see whether anything has changed.

Please can we reassure you that this is not a scam. We are working alongside the NHS to encourage patients aged 55-74 to have their lungs checked. For further information please visit: www.sussexlunghealthcheck.nhs.uk.