LUNG cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in Ireland, killing around 1,900 people each year. However, research shows that 28 per cent of Irish people don’t know the signs and symptoms.
In 2020, at the age of 66, Tim Egan from Dooradoyle in Limerick City was diagnosed with lung cancer after he presented to his GP with a persistent cough.
He had surgery to remove a two-centimetre tumour from his lung, and now he is sharing his experience to highlight the importance of being aware of the signs and symptoms of lung cancer.
The Limerick man shared that it was his wife, Geraldine, who encouraged him to find out what was causing his lingering cough.
“I think we need to be aware that anybody can get lung cancer,” said Tim.
“I did smoke, but I hadn’t smoked in nearly 30 years. I was healthy, I was active, and yet this little cough I had that wouldn’t go away; that was lung cancer.”
The Dooradoyle man added that he “would really encourage people to be on the lookout for the signs and symptoms and speak to your doctor as soon as you can. I had my surgery and now I go for my check-ups, and that’s it. All because we caught it early.”
The Irish Cancer Society says that six in every 10 lung cancer diagnoses are detected at late stage, when it is harder to treat. The charity is urging people to be aware of the signs of lung cancer and to contact their GP if they notice any symptoms.
Irish Cancer Society cancer nurse Anne Quinlan said that “being aware of the signs and symptoms of lung cancer is vital for early detection and can save lives”.
“Treatment is more likely to be successful if lung cancer is diagnosed early. If you notice any signs or symptoms, please contact your GP or call the Irish Cancer Society’s support line on 1800 200 700.”
