Lung cancer symptoms and screening: the ABCD signs everyone should know

By Dr Elizabeth Towers, Clinical Lead for Cancer

Close-up of hand a man holding lungs symbol while sitting in the hospital

Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers in the UK. However, early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes and survival. Understanding lung cancer symptoms and attending lung cancer screening when invited helps detect cancer earlier, when treatment is most effective.

Lung cancer can affect anyone, including people who have never smoked. Therefore, recognising symptoms and knowing when to seek medical advice is essential. Early assessment can save your life or the life of someone you care about.

What are the early signs of lung cancer?

Lung cancer symptoms often develop gradually. In some cases, symptoms may be mild at first. However, recognising early warning signs allows treatment to begin sooner.

A helpful way to remember lung cancer symptoms is the ABCD guide. This simple method highlights common symptoms that should be checked by a GP.

These symptoms do not always mean cancer. Nevertheless, medical assessment is important.

Common lung cancer symptoms: the ABCD guide

A – Appetite loss and unexplained weight loss

Changes in appetite can sometimes indicate an underlying health problem. As a result, unexplained weight loss should always be assessed.

For example, you may notice:

  • eating less than usual
  • feeling full more quickly
  • losing weight without trying
  • reduced interest in food

Persistent appetite changes require medical advice.

B – Breathlessness or coughing up blood

Breathlessness is another important symptom. This may develop gradually or appear suddenly.

You may notice:

  • becoming breathless during everyday activities
  • difficulty breathing during routine tasks
  • coughing up blood, even small amounts

Coughing up blood always requires urgent medical assessment. Therefore, contact your GP immediately if this occurs.

C – Persistent cough or chest pain

A cough that lasts more than three weeks should be checked. In addition, changes to an existing cough may indicate a problem.

Watch for:

  • a cough lasting longer than three weeks
  • changes to a long-standing cough
  • chest pain when breathing or coughing
  • coughing that worsens over time

These symptoms may have other causes. However, medical assessment is essential.

D – Difficulty swallowing or changes to your voice

Lung cancer can sometimes affect nerves controlling your voice. Consequently, voice or swallowing changes may develop.

For example, you may notice:

  • a hoarse voice
  • difficulty swallowing
  • pain when swallowing
  • a sore throat that does not improve

Persistent symptoms should be assessed by your GP.

When to see a GP about lung cancer symptoms

Contact your GP if you experience:

  • a cough lasting more than three weeks
  • coughing up blood
  • persistent breathlessness
  • chest pain
  • unexplained weight loss
  • appetite loss
  • voice changes or difficulty swallowing

These symptoms are often caused by non-cancerous conditions. However, early assessment helps identify the cause and ensure appropriate care.

Do not delay seeking medical advice if you are concerned.

Lung cancer symptoms and screening in Essex

Lung cancer screening helps detect cancer early, sometimes before symptoms appear. As a result, treatment can begin sooner and outcomes improve.

The NHS Lung Cancer Screening Programme invites people aged 55 to 75 who smoke or previously smoked. The programme includes a lung health check and, if needed, a low-dose CT scan.

Screening has already helped thousands of people across Essex.

Learn more about lung cancer screening

Why early detection of lung cancer matters

Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes. When lung cancer is found early:

  • treatment is more effective
  • more treatment options are available
  • survival rates improve

Both symptom awareness and screening play important roles in early diagnosis.

Lung cancer can affect anyone

Smoking is the main risk factor for lung cancer. However, lung cancer can also affect people who have never smoked.

Therefore, it is important to recognise symptoms regardless of your smoking history.

If something does not feel right, speak to your GP.

Key message: know the symptoms and seek help early

Knowing lung cancer symptoms and attending screening appointments can help detect cancer early.

Remember the ABCD signs:

  • appetite loss
  • breathlessness or coughing up blood
  • persistent cough or chest pain
  • difficulty swallowing or voice changes

If you notice symptoms, contact your GP promptly. Early detection saves lives.

Frequently asked questions about lung cancer symptoms and screening

Common early symptoms include:

  • persistent cough
  • breathlessness
  • coughing up blood
  • chest pain
  • unexplained weight loss
  • appetite loss

Speak to your GP if you notice symptoms.

See your GP if your cough lasts longer than three weeks, changes, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as breathlessness or chest pain.

Yes. Coughing up blood should always be checked urgently by a GP or healthcare professional.

In Essex, screening is offered to people aged 55 to 75 who smoke or used to smoke.

You will have a lung health check and may be offered a CT scan if needed. This scan can detect cancer early.

Yes. Although smoking increases risk, lung cancer can affect non-smokers.

No. Lung cancer may not cause symptoms in its early stages. Screening helps detect cancer early.

No. Breathlessness is often caused by other conditions, but persistent or unexplained breathlessness should be assessed.

Attend your appointment. Screening can detect cancer early and improve treatment outcomes.

Speak to your GP or visit trusted NHS and cancer charity websites for advice, screening information, and support.