Local doctor’s TV call

A SADDLEWORTH doctor is using his time in the TV spotlight to spread an important message to the nation.

Dr Ian Watson, a GP at Saddleworth Medical Practice, is getting used to seeing his face plastered across the small screen as part of a new lung-cancer awareness campaign. He took part in a day of filming to front the Department of Health’s campaign Be Clear On Cancer.

The aim is to boost awareness of the symptoms to get patients diagnosed sooner and ensure successful treatment.

Dr Watson said: “I’m pleased I’ve been able to play a role in helping people to identify the signs and symptoms of lung cancer and encourage them to see their GP. In most cases the symptoms will be nothing serious, but for the few who do have lung cancer it is much better to have an earlier diagnosis and treatment.”

The key symptoms of lung cancer are a cough of more than three weeks duration, repeated chest infections, coughing-up blood and breathlessness. Patients may also feel more tired than usual, lose weight for no obvious reason or suffer chest or shoulders pain.

TV audiences in Oldham may have to wait to catch a glimpse of Dr Watson: the campaign is being piloted in the Midlands — but can be seen online at www.nhs.uk/lungcancer.