Indian actor and model Nakuul Mehta is urging people with lung cancer symptoms to see their doctor. Lung cancer, heart disease and lung disease cause more than 150,000 deaths in England each year.

Early diagnosis can save lives and improve the quality of life of those living with conditions such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), a common form of lung disease that includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis.

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Nakuul Mehta, said, “Knowing the signs of these diseases is important for our community.

"If you get out of breath doing everyday tasks you used to be able to do or you’ve had a persistent cough for 3 weeks or more, it could be a sign of lung disease, heart disease, or even cancer.

Finding it early makes it more treatable and could save your life. So don’t ignore it, I urge you to please tell your doctor.”

The campaign is prompting anyone with these symptoms to see their GP and also calls on people to look out for each other and encourage friends and family to act.

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The campaign is aimed at men and women aged 50 and above who are most at risk of lung cancer, COPD and heart disease.

Julia Verne, Clinical Lead for Public Health England, comments:“Breathlessness and a persistent cough are symptoms that can be easily ignored or put down to getting older, or seen as just minor health niggles.

"But these symptoms can be warning signs and it is really important to get them checked out by a doctor.

People are more likely to urge others to seek medical help for these symptoms than to speak to a GP themselves.

"If anyone has concerns, we would encourage them to seek medical advice, as getting help early rather than waiting until the problem gets worse is vital.

"Early diagnosis saves lives and can improve quality of life for people with long term conditions, so if you find yourself getting out of breath doing things you used to be able to do, or if you have a cough that has lasted for three weeks or more, get it checked out.”

Health Minister, Steve Brine, said,"Last week's cancer survival statistics showed more people are surviving cancer than ever before and early diagnosis is crucial‎ - that’s why the Government is proud to support the Be Clear on Cancer campaign to help more people recognise the signs so they can beat this terrible illness.”

Professor Chris Harrison, National Clinical Director for Cancer at NHS England, said: “The good news is that cancer survival rates are now at their highest ever, and earlier diagnosis and treatment will help us make further gains for the 150,000 people who die of lung cancer, lung disease and heart disease in England each year.

“The earlier people are diagnosed, the better their chances, and that’s why campaigns like this – which help people understand what symptoms to look out for and when to visit the GP – are so important.”