Lung Cancer Awareness Month 2025: Know the Signs & Take Action
Every November, the world observes Lung Cancer Awareness Month — a time dedicated to raising awareness, supporting those affected, and promoting early detection. At Dooctor.ie, we want to remind people across Ireland that lung cancer can affect anyone, and recognising symptoms early can make all the difference.
What Is Lung Cancer?
Lung cancer occurs when normal cells in your lungs grow in an abnormal and uncontrolled way, forming a lump called a tumour. These cancerous cells can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated.
According to the Irish Cancer Society, lung cancer is the fourth most common cancer in Ireland, with almost 2,600 people diagnosed every year, most commonly over the age of 50.
Symptoms of Lung Cancer
It’s important to know the warning signs. While these symptoms don’t always mean cancer, any persistent or unusual changes should be checked by a doctor:
- Wheezing or difficulty breathing
- A cough that doesn’t go away, or a change to a long-standing cough
- Repeated chest infections that don’t clear with antibiotics
- Coughing up blood-stained phlegm
- Pain in the chest, especially when coughing or breathing deeply
- Swelling around the face or neck
- Difficulty swallowing
- Feeling unusually tired or fatigued
- Loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss
💡 Remember: These symptoms can be caused by other conditions too — but it’s always safest to get them checked.
Can You Be Screened for Lung Cancer?
Testing for lung cancer when you have no symptoms is called screening.
Currently, there is no national lung cancer screening programme in Ireland, but the Irish Cancer Society and other organisations are working to change that.
If you’re worried about your lung health or think you might be at risk, speak to your Doctor or one of our doctors at Dooctor.ie for guidance on next steps, referrals, or further testing.
Risk Factors to Know
While smoking remains the biggest risk factor, lung cancer is not just a smoker’s disease. Other factors include:
- Long-term exposure to second-hand smoke
- Air pollution and environmental toxins
- Occupational exposure (e.g., asbestos, diesel fumes)
- Family history or genetic predisposition
- Previous radiation therapy to the chest area
Taking Action During Lung Cancer Awareness Month
This November, take a proactive approach to protecting your lung health:
- Avoid smoking and limit exposure to second-hand smoke.
- Notice changes early — persistent coughs or chest infections shouldn’t be ignored.
- Stay active and eat well to support overall health.
- Speak to a doctor about your risk factors and possible investigations.
- Share awareness — help others recognise the importance of early detection.
How Dooctor.ie Can Help
At Dooctor.ie, we provide accessible and affordable medical consultations both online and in-clinic, available 7 days a week.
If you’re experiencing any respiratory symptoms or concerns about your lung health, our doctors can assess your condition, offer treatment or referrals, and guide you on next steps for further care.
We’re here to make healthcare convenient and proactive — because early action saves lives.
👉 Learn more and book your consultation at Dooctor.ie
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Further Resources
For more detailed information and support:
- Irish Cancer Society – Lung Cancer Information
- World Health Organization – Lung Cancer Awareness Month
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For more information about Dooctor.ie, please visit dooctor.ie or call 0818 010 999