RESIDENTS across the borough are being encouraged to complete a short questionnaire about Lung Health Checks.
The survey, which closes on 16th June, is to help the council’s Public Health team gauge the levels of awareness for the check programme which is open to smokers aged 35 years and older across Redcar and Cleveland.
It is important that as many people as possible are aware of the scheme, as it can help detect Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). COPD is a growing risk in the borough, with an estimated 2,300 people suffering from the condition without knowing it.
The checks themselves take about 30 minutes with people asked a couple of questions before getting their height measured and weighed as well as a test to see how well they breath in and out. These results will help with identifying any potential lung problems and assist in tailoring advice to each individual.
Edward Kunonga, Interim Director of Public Health for Redcar & Cleveland said: “The Lung health Check can detect potential problems before they create real damage to the lungs”.
“Smokers are at greatest risk of developing lung diseases such as COPD and lung cancer, but the good news is that these conditions can often be prevented”.
“The purpose of the survey is to find out the level of awareness about the service, how accessible it is and how it could be improved. Feedback from local people is very important to us, and I hope that many do take the opportunity to spend a few minutes to complete the online survey.”
Since the start of the Lung Health Checks in 2013, 310 people have been diagnosed with COPD in Redcar & Cleveland following checks. This means that these people are able to receive the early treatment that they need to help reduce the progression of the disease and improve quality of life.
To share your views please complete the questionnaire by visiting https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/lunghealthcheck before the deadline of 16th June.