Experience of, awareness of and help-seeking for potential cancer symptoms in smokers and non-smokers: A cross-sectional study
This UK based study has investigated the differences between smokers and non-smokers in symptoms experienced, awareness and consulting with their doctor for potential cancer symptoms. Using a postal questionnaire about symptoms, consulting and awareness of symptoms the researchers found that smoking was associated with cough, breathlessness and tiredness. Smoking was also associated with more awareness of breathlessness as a cancer symptom. Smokers were less likely to go to their doctor when they had a cough compared to participants who had never smoked. This is the first study to focus on experience of consultation, symptom awareness of lung and/or head and neck cancers in relation to smoking status. It is also the first to focus on a high risk group, smokers over 50 years old.
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