HAMPSHIRE’S biggest cancer killer claims hundreds of lives and now the NHS is encouraging people to be aware of the early signs of lung cancer.

An average of 676 new lung cancer cases are diagnosed every year in the county and it has one of the lowest survival rates because of late diagnosis.

To improve the odds the NHS Be Clear on Cancer campaign is aiming to raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of lung cancer and encourage people with a persistent cough to see their GP early.

Lung cancer is most common in people aged over 50.

Councillor Liz Fairhurst, executive member for health and wellbeing at Hampshire County Council said: “We need to improve the number of early diagnoses so that treatment is started sooner and lives saved. “We want people to become more aware of the symptoms of lung cancer and that if they have a persistent cough for more than three weeks to go and see their GP.

“This campaign will help to increase awareness and encourage people to take action earlier. No one should be put off going to see their GP or from encouraging other family members to visit their doctor if they are concerned about a persistent cough.”

People diagnosed at the earliest stage are five times more likely to survive lung cancer for at least five years than those diagnosed at a late stage.

To find out more about the campaign visit www.nhs.uk/lung-cancer