A CAMPAIGN has been launched across the south west to urge those with laboured breathing or a cough to visit a doctor.

Public Health England launched the ‘Be Clear on Cancer’ campaign this week in a bid to improve early diagnosis of lung disease or lung cancer.

These diseases are some of the leading causes of death in England, causing more than 150,000 deaths each year combined, with breathlessness or a persistent cough both common symptoms.

Debbie Stark, deputy centre director for PHE south west said: “In 2015, we know that 3,688 people were diagnosed with lung cancer in the South West.

“We would like to see earlier diagnosis of these conditions across the region.

“Recognising the symptoms of these diseases and going to the doctor promptly can lead to an earlier diagnosis where these conditions are more treatable.

“Coughing for three weeks or more or becoming breathless doing things you used to be able to do, could be a sign of something serious, so it is important to get them checked out.”

The campaign is aimed at men and women aged 50 and above as these people are most at risk of lung cancer, COPD and heart disease.

It also aims to prompt anyone who experiences these symptoms to visit their GP, look out for each other and encourage friends and family to visit the GP if they have either of these symptoms.

This call comes as a new survey found that adults over 50 in the south west are more likely to encourage others to see the doctor than go themselves.

It found that 88 per cent would urge their friends and family to visit their GP with these symptoms while only 67 per cent would contact their GP if they experienced the symptoms themselves.

A Be Clear on Cancer roadshow will be visiting the south west to raise awareness of the signs of heart disease, lung cancer and lung disease and to encourage those with symptoms to visit their GP.

The roadshow team, which includes a nurse, will be handing out leaflets and talking to anyone who has any questions.

They will be stopping at shopping centres’ across the country and will be visiting a number of locations across the South West, including:

Guildhall, Exeter, July 10-11

Atlantic Village, Bideford, July 12-13

Broadwalk, Knowle, Bristol, July 14-15