HEALTH professionals are urging seniors not to ignore signs of lung cancer, with new research suggesting old age is no impediment to a patient's chances of survival.
New Australian research, presented at the Australian Lung Cancer Conference, suggests older age is no barrier to survival, but early detection is essential.
A collaborative effort by Pathology Queensland, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sunshine Coast Hospital and Health Service and Cancer Second Opinion, the study involved analysis of more than 1000 patient records.
The average age of diagnosis in Australia was found to be 69 and analysis found no clear link between age and survival outcomes.
Lung Foundation Australia chief executive Heather Allan said the findings highlighted the importance of early detection.
Survival rates were found to be four times higher with stage 1 diagnosis than at stage 4.
"With the right treatment and care, it's possible for people diagnosed at 65 years or older to live for years with lung cancer," Ms Allan said.
"It doesn't matter if you're a smoker or a non-smoker, still in work or enjoy retirement, you deserve your health.
"So if you are breathless, have chest pain or neck pain, a persistent cough, or have a history of smoking, speak to your doctor."
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