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Macmillan and Cancerbackup merged in 2008. Together we provide free, high quality information for people affected by cancer through our publications, website and phone service. Find out more|.
Find out how we produce our information|
Most people begin by seeing their GP when they develop symptoms|. Your GP will examine you and arrange for you to have tests| including a chest x-ray.
If your GP thinks you have symptoms that could be caused by lung cancer, they will refer you for an urgent chest x-ray. They should receive the x-ray report within a few days and, depending on the result, they may then refer you to a hospital for specialist advice and treatment. You should be seen at the hospital within two weeks.
In some circumstances the GP will make an urgent referral before the result of the chest x-ray is known. This means that you should be seen at the hospital within two weeks.
The Department of Health has given the following guidelines to GPs to help them know when to arrange an urgent referral.
They should arrange an urgent referral with a chest specialist for anyone:
They should arrange an urgent chest x-ray for anyone:
If the x-ray shows something that might suggest lung cancer, your GP will arrange an urgent referral to a chest specialist. Usually you will see the specialist within two weeks of this referral being made.
For answers, support or just a chat, call the Macmillan Support Line free (Monday to Friday, 9am-8pm)
If you have any questions about cancer, need support or just want someone to talk to, ask Macmillan.