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Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
Lifestyle
Jacob Rawley & Antony Thrower & Cian O'Broin

Lung cancer warning as people urged to do 'finger test' to see early signs of disease

One of the most common forms of cancer worldwide is lung cancer, with some 2 million people being diagnosed each year.

Due to this statistic, it is vital that early detection can be made through various warning signs, some of which are much less well-known, The Daily Record reported.

Health and cancer experts are asking people to attention to the symptoms that can appear in our nails with a very straightforward 'finger test'.

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This is everything you need to know about finger clubbing, and how to identify the symptoms.

What does the early sign of lung cancer on fingertips look like?

If you are unable to identify a diamond-shaped window of light when you press your fingernails together, you may have finger clubbing.

This occurs when the ends of your fingers become swollen - and could be a warning sign of lung cancer, experts believe.

It occurs in stages, beginning at the base of the nail, which starts to get soft.

After, the skin next to the nail bed becomes shiny, as the nails begin to curve more than usual when viewed from the side.

The finger could enlarge and swell from fluid building up in the soft tissues of the fingers.

While not having this diamond-shaped gap between fingernails doesn't definitely signify that you have lung cancer, it could be a possible symptom, so you should consider getting it checked.

Patient Brian Gemmell , who had finger clubbing said: "Go and see your doctor If you’ve got anything that you’re concerned about – that’s what a GP is for. Go as soon as you can."

GP Dr Helen Piercy added: "If you notice any signs or symptoms that concern you, see your GP.

"First phone for an appointment. You will be assessed. You will be invited in, if you need to be seen face-to-face. Don’t be afraid. Pick up the phone."

Lung cancer symptoms are different for people. Some people have numerous symptoms and some don't have any.

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