People in Barking and Dagenham aged between 55 and 74 who are current or former smokers can take advantage of a new, free opportunity to have their lungs checked.

More than 14,000 Barking and Dagenham residents should expect to receive an invitation to a lung check appointment over the next 12 months. These are arranged by invite only and letters are currently being sent out to those who are eligible. It is really important that people follow the instructions in the letter and keep their appointment.

This is part of a national NHS pilot called the Targeted Lung Health Check Programme, and it is now available in Barking and Dagenham for the first time.

The lung health check takes place in two stages. The first is an initial phone assessment with a specially trained health care professional. If the assessment finds the person to be at high risk, they are offered a low dose CT (computerised tomography) scan of the lungs for further investigation.

Scans are simple and safe, and will be taking place for those who are invited in a dedicated scanning truck located at Barking Sporthouse and Gym at Mayesbrook Park.

Dr Rebecca Taylor, Clinical Director for the Targeted Lung Health Check Programme, said:

“A lung health check is a free MOT of the lungs. It finds out how well your lungs are working and aims to rule out any serious conditions. Often, early problems with the lungs do not cause any symptoms. It is therefore important for people to attend even if they are fit and healthy.

“Most of the time, nothing is found but if there are any problems with how your lungs are working, such as cancer, finding out early can make treatment simpler and more successful. The outcome of treatment for lung cancer is much better when it is diagnosed at an early stage, so we will be helping to save lives.”

The Targeted Lung Health Check programme also aims to promote healthier lifestyles with advice about stopping smoking and people will be encouraged to get in touch with their local stop smoking services.

Dr Rajesh Banka, a Consultant Respiratory Physician at Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust said:

“I’m delighted the programme has gone live across Barking and Dagenham, as this vital service will make a difference to so many people.

“If you are offered a Lung Health Check, please do accept, as it helps in the early detection of lung cancer so that people can be treated sooner and more effectively – ultimately saving more lives.”