If lung cancer is found at an earlier stage, there is more chance of a better outcome.
It’s important to know the symptoms of lung cancer as although lung cancer occurs mostly in people aged 60 and over, it can affect people of any age.
New and constantly evolving treatments such as immunotherapy are likely to continue to improve outcomes for people affected by lung cancer.
What are the symptoms?
- coughing up blood
- a new or changed cough that doesn’t go away
- chest pain and/or shoulder pain or discomfort – the pain may be worse with coughing or deep breathing
- trouble breathing or shortness of breath
- hoarse voice
- weight loss
- loss of appetite
- chest infection that doesn’t go away
- tiredness or weakness.
Many conditions can cause these symptoms, not just lung cancer.
Anyone can get lung cancer, even if they have never smoked. If you have any of these symptoms and they are persistent, talk to your doctor.
For Health Professionals:
- Investigating symptoms of lung cancer: a guide for all health professionals
- Digital tool for Investigating symptoms of lung cancer: a guide for all health professionals
- Evidence report for Investigating symptoms of lung cancer: a guide for all health professionals
- Lung Cancer Framework
- Lung Cancer Framework - At a glance
- Delivering best practice lung cancer care - a guide for health professionals
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people - lung cancer module
- Optimal Care Pathway for People with Lung Cancer
- Optimal Care Pathway for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with cancer
For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities:
- My lung cancer pathway
- Our Lungs Our Mob
- Optimal Care Pathway for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with cancer
- Lung Cancer in our Mob: a handbook for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people - lung cancer module
- Our Lungs, Our Mob Community Education Resource
For culturally and linguistically diverse communities
For more information
- Look Out 4 Lung Cancer
- Risk factors for lung cancer
- Getting the best advice and care - a guide for those affected by lung cancer