Why this absolutely giant lung will be sitting in Asda car park in Blackpool

The NHS, in collaboration with Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation, is touring the country with a giant pair of 12ft high lungs to raise awareness of lung cancer symptoms and start much-needed conversations around the disease.

The inflatable organs are large enough for visitors to step inside where they can learn about typical lung structures, lung health and the effects of smoking. Those attending can also speak to trained community engagement teams and patient advocates who will encourage them to visit their GP to talk about suspected symptoms.

Lung cancer GP referrals have been the slowest of all cancer types to recover since the start of the pandemic, with the Help Us Help You lung cancer campaign aiming to increase early referrals which dramatically improve health outcomes in cancer care.

Dr Neil Smith, GP clinical lead for cancer in Lancashire and South Cumbria, said: “We are delighted to be one of the stops on the Let’s Talk Lung Cancer roadshow.

“Lancashire and South Cumbria have one of the highest mortality rates for lung cancer in England and in 2019 over 150 people were diagnosed with lung cancer in Blackpool alone, with many people diagnosed with late-stage disease when we can no longer treat with curative intent. Getting out into the heart of the community and having these vital conversations could make all the difference.”

Chief executive of Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation, Paula Chadwick, said: “Yes, lung cancer is currently the UK’s biggest cancer killer but being able to recognise its many different symptoms and taking immediate action can change this, helping people get diagnosed earlier when lung cancer is easier to treat.”

The main symptoms of lung cancer include a cough that doesn’t go away after three weeks, recurring chest infections, coughing up blood, an ache or pain when breathing or coughing, persistent breathlessness, persistent tiredness and/or loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss.

The Let’s Talk Lung Cancer roadshow will be at Asda on Cherry Tree Road on October14 between 10am and 4pm. Anyone concerned about symptoms or affected by lung cancer is urged to go down and chat with the team.