Dame Esther Rantzen yesterday revealed that she is suffering from lung cancer, which has spread in a matter of weeks.
The renowned broadcaster has been a role model for female journalists, as well as founding the notable charities Childline and The Silver Line. The 82 year-old became a household name as presenter of the BBC show That's Live for 21 years from 1972 until 1994.
Dame Esther released a statement on Monday thanking her family, friends and colleagues for their support. "In the last few weeks I have discovered that I am suffering from lung cancer which has now spread," she said. "At the moment I am undergoing various tests, to assess the best treatment."
She added: "This diagnosis has prompted me to look back over the years, and I want to express my profound thanks to everyone who has made my life so joyful, filled with fun, and with inspiration."
Lung cancer is the the third most common form of the disease in the Great Britain, according to Cancer Research UK. There are around 48,500 new lung cancer cases in the UK every year - that's more than 130 every day.
While Dame Esther's condition evolved in just a matter of weeks, the signs of lung cancer usually don't actually happen until the disease has worsened.
According to the NHS, "there are usually no signs or symptoms of lung cancer in the early stages. Symptoms develop as the condition progresses."
Medical negligence solicitor Kim Jackson, from Patient Claim Line, highlighted the crucial warning signs of lung cancer, which shouldn't be ignored, as early detection is vital for survival.
“Red flag symptoms include a persistent cough that can deteriorate, coughing up blood and chest pain that is worse with deep breathing, coughing or laughing,” she said.
“A loss of appetite, weight loss that cannot be explained and fatigue are also key signs of lung cancer. Watch out for hoarseness, breathlessness, a new onset of wheezing and infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia that are persistent.
“More than half of people diagnosed with lung cancer will die within one year of diagnosis, even with treatment. Obviously, the sooner lung cancer is detected, the greater chance you have of survival."
According to the NHS, other main symptoms include:
- a cough that does not go away after three weeks
- a long-standing cough that gets worse
- chest infections that keep coming back
- coughing up blood
- an ache or pain when breathing or coughing
- persistent breathlessness
- persistent tiredness or lack of energy
- loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss
Less common lung cancer signs include:
- changes in the appearance of your fingers, such as becoming more curved or their ends becoming larger (this is known as finger clubbing)
- difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or pain when swallowing
- wheezing
- a hoarse voice
- swelling of your face or neck
- persistent chest or shoulder pain
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