This November, Lung Cancer Awareness Month provides an opportunity to talk about the impact of lung cancer misdiagnosis and delayed diagnosis—a reality that affects thousands of people across the UK. With around 48,000 new cases each year, lung cancer remains the third most common cancer in the country. Yet, for many, missed or delayed detection has profound consequences on treatment options and outcomes.

Why early detection is key

Lung cancer is often difficult to catch early. Symptoms such as a persistent cough, breathlessness, or unexplained weight loss can seem minor or be mistaken for other respiratory issues, sometimes delaying diagnosis until the cancer has progressed. For high-risk individuals, like long-term smokers or those with a family history, early detection can be lifesaving, making proactive care essential.

Our clinical negligence team frequently sees cases where healthcare providers have missed early signs of lung cancer. When symptoms are dismissed or not thoroughly investigated, patients can face limited treatment options and a much more challenging journey.

What delayed diagnosis means for patients

At Switalskis, we work with individuals and families who have been affected by delayed lung cancer diagnoses. For them, the impact of a missed or late diagnosis can be devastating, often coming at a time when timely intervention might have changed the outcome. These cases highlight how critical it is for healthcare providers to act on early warning signs and follow a thorough diagnostic process.

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has established guidelines that recommend proactive referrals for high-risk individuals. Simple measures—like a routine chest X-ray or NHS lung health check—can identify potential issues before they become life-threatening.

Lung health checks – a lifeline for early detection

For those aged 55 to 74 who have smoked, NHS lung health checks offer an early intervention that can catch issues before symptoms even appear. Accessible and cost-free, these checks are an essential step toward preventing late-stage diagnoses and should be used wherever possible to improve outcomes.

We believe that these health checks need more awareness, not just among patients but also within healthcare settings, to ensure that high-risk patients have the opportunity for early detection.

How Switalskis can help you

Our team at Switalskis is committed to supporting patients and families who have suffered due to delayed lung cancer diagnoses. Raising awareness during Lung Cancer Awareness Month isn’t just about prevention; it’s about holding healthcare providers accountable to ensure every patient has the best possible chance at a timely and accurate diagnosis.

If you or a loved one has been affected by a misdiagnosis or delay in your lung cancer diagnosis, we’re here to offer guidance and support. Contact our cancer misdiagnosis claims team on 0800 1380 458 or email help@switalskis.com