It may be decreasing in men, but shockingly lung cancer has increased amongst women over the last 10 years [1]. So, to help more women learn how to love their lungs during Lung Cancer Awareness Month this November, Katherine Jenkins is helping Macmillan Cancer Support raise greater awareness of lung cancer.

Katherine Jenkins, classical singer and ambassador for Macmillan Cancer Support, said:

'As a singer my lungs are my best friend and I do my best to give them plenty of TLC. Lung cancer is a cause close to my heart as I lost my father to it when I was only 15, which is why I'm passionate to help Macmillan Cancer Support encourage people to be more aware of the causes, signs and symptoms of lung cancer.'

The symptoms of lung cancer may include any of the following:

- a continuing cough, or change in a long-standing cough
- a chest infection that does not get better
- increasing breathlessness
- coughing up blood-stained phlegm (sputum)
- a hoarse voice
- a dull ache, or a sharp pain, when you cough or take a deep breath
- loss of appetite and loss of weight
- difficulty swallowing
- excessive tiredness (fatigue) and lethargy.

All of these symptoms can also be caused by illnesses other than cancer.

Katherine adds:

'If you have any symptoms, it's best to get them checked out by your GP or pharmacist. Diagnosis at an earlier stage could save your life.'

Lung cancer has always been more common in men, particularly those over 40, as more men used to smoke than women. However, as more women have started smoking, the number of women developing lung cancer has gone up considerably [2]. With this shocking trend in mind, Macmillan has come up with some tips, other than giving up smoking, to help women love their lungs and reduce their lung cancer risk.

1. Watch your weight Nearly two thirds of women would be happy to be told they were losing weight even if they weren't trying, according to a poll of over 1000 women by Macmillan Cancer Support [3]. However, unexplained weight loss can be a symptom of lung cancer. If you notice a loss of appetite and weight it's important to see your GP to rule out lung cancer and stay in good health.

2. Ditch the sexy voice Your other half may love your sexy voice but if you have a hoarse voice or a cough get it checked out. These symptoms may be caused by illnesses other than cancer but it's best to visit your GP.

3. Listen to your intuition We worry about the kids, partner, parents etc but rarely ourselves. 'We are all so busy, but if your body is telling you something is wrong then do listen,' says, Helen Potter, Senior Macmillan Nurse. 'Listening to your intuition could save your life.'

4. Make your estate agent love you. Keep your house smoke free. Keep your home smelling sweet. Breathing in other people's cigarette smoke (passive smoking) also increases the risk of lung disease and cancer [4].

5. Vitamin C Supermarket Sweep Did you know that fruit containing Vitamin C may help to reduce your risk of developing lung cancer? [5]. When you're next doing your supermarket sweep why not fill up your basket with peppers, broccoli, brussels sprout, sweet potatoes, oranges and kiwi fruit. Invite some friends over in the evening and have some fun coming up with some healthy recipe ideas, full of Vitamin C, which can help to protect and keep your cells healthy.

Notes

1. Cancer Research UK

2. Macmillan Cancer Support

3. Macmillan Cancer Support poll of 2,008 people (1,159 women and 849 men) conducted 21-22 May 2010 by Toluna Quick Surveys.

4. Cancer Research UK

5. Am J Clin Nutr 1993 Apr; 57(4):598-9 'Epidemiological evidence regarding Vitamin C and Cancer'

Source:
Macmillan Cancer Support