Ten cases of cancer have been found by a free lung health check in an East Lancs town.

The Lancashire and South Cumbria ICB targeted lung health check (TLHC) programme invited 7,813 eligible people in Burnley who are current or former smokers aged between 55 and 74 to attend the check last November.

The invite for the check, described as an ‘MOT for the lungs’, was accepted by more than 5,000 people which had led to 1,500 people being referred for a low dose CT scan and 10 cases of cancer being found.

Dr John Howells, clinical lead for Targeted Lung Health Checks, said: “Targeted lung health checks are saving lives in Lancashire, the response we have had from people in Burnley has been fantastic.

"More than two thirds (68 per cent) of people we invited agreed to take part and I hope even more will say ‘yes’ when we begin inviting those who are eligible in Hyndburn soon.

“Most patients received a clean bill of health and valuable peace of mind but for those who do require further treatment, we have a better chance if we find it early, often when there are no symptoms.”

The checks take place in two stages: a 20-minute telephone consultation with a nurse followed by a low-dose CT scan for those identified as being at risk of lung cancer.

Dr Howells added: “We are seeing more and more people grasping the opportunity to get checked out and it is helping us spot problems sooner. If you are invited to take part please say yes. Early diagnosis saves lives.”

TLHCs went live across Blackburn with Darwen and Blackpool in 2021, before being introduced to other parts of East Lancashire throughout 2022.