Screening can save your life by finding lung cancer early when it’s more treatable. Your first appointment is just a simple phone call to discuss your breathing, medical history, lifestyle, and lung health.
*You need to be registered with your GP to be invited for a screening.
Derek, Bradford
“The scan was over in just five minutes. All I had to do was hold my breath for five seconds, four times, while the machine did its work.”
Tasleem, BD8
“It was quick and didn’t hurt. You may be scared, but it’s worth going.”
Screening can save your life by finding lung cancer early when it’s more treatable. Your first appointment is just a simple phone call to discuss your breathing, medical history, lifestyle, and lung health.
An appointment is waiting for you. Book yours.
What to expect
- If you are a smoker or ex-smoker, your GP will send you a text inviting you to a free lung health check. Reply “YES” to take part.
- You’ll have a 20–30 minute phone call with a health professional about your breathing, medical history, and lifestyle.
- If you’re at higher risk, you’ll be invited for a low-dose CT scan at a mobile scanner in your local area in Bradford (often supermarket car parks for convenience).
- The scan itself takes just a few minutes and is carried out by a specialist lung nurse.
Hints and tips
- Make sure your GP has your correct smoking history so you’re invited.
- Wear clothes without metal for the scan.
- The mobile CT scanners are often located in community locations like supermarket car parks to make them convenient.
Understanding your results
You’ll usually get your results within 4 weeks by post.
No problems found
No signs of lung cancer or other problems.
Second scan needed
To check an unclear finding, often harmless. We will ask you to come for another scan in around three months, just to check it’s not anything more serious.
Further tests needed
Something has been seen on the scan and needs investigating, you’ll be contacted quickly by phone, and the hospital will be informed so you can be seen by a doctor.
Other problem found
Not lung cancer, but there are signs of other problems that may need treatment or medical advice; your GP will follow up.
Frequently asked questions
Who is eligible for lung screening?
Ages 55–74 with a history of smoking or who currently smoke. The programme is being rolled out gradually across England, and in Bradford, it is currently available at a select number of GP practices.
Where does it take place?
You will have a phone call first, then visit a mobile CT scanner in your local Bradford area if needed.
What does the screening involve?
The screening involves two stages. First, you’ll have a phone call with a health professional to discuss your breathing, lifestyle, and medical history. If you are found to be at a higher risk, you will be invited for a quick, painless low-dose CT scan. The CT scan itself only takes a few minutes.
Will I need to get undressed?
You may need to remove your coat and clothing with metal, such as bras, but you stay clothed for the scan. There is a private changing area to remove these items.
How long does the process take?
The initial phone call is an approximately 20-30 minute appointment. The CT scan itself is very quick, just a few minutes. The entire appointment should last about 10 minutes.
When will I get my results?
You will usually get your results within four weeks of the CT scan.
Even if you’ve had a lung health check, it is important to be aware of the symptoms of lung cancer.
See your GP if you notice:
- Persistent cough
- Breathlessness
- Changes to an ongoing cough
- Unexplained tiredness or weight loss
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Across Bradford District and Craven, local people have shared how screening has given them peace of mind, caught cancer early, and even saved their lives.
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You’ll need to be registered with a GP to receive your invitation.