Persistent cough could be lung cancer

The public should be vigilant about persistent coughs as they could be a sign of lung cancer, a new government advertising drive is warning.

The campaign recommends people with coughs lasting three weeks visit their GP.

Research has shown the public are much more aware that lumps and bleeding are warning signs of cancer than a cough, but the ads make clear persistent coughs should also raise alarm bells.

The push is being backed by celebrities including comedian and actor Ricky Gervais, TV star Linda Robson and Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

Professor Sir Mike Richards said: "It is vital that cancer patients get treated quickly so they have the best chance of surviving."

Lung cancer affects 33,000 people in England every year, with the majority of cases occurring in people over the age of 55. However, when diagnosed at an early stage, as many as 80% are alive five years after diagnosis - compared with 7% if it is spotted late on.