Experts say a straightforward fingernail test may help identify a potential symptom of lung cancer
Medical professionals suggest that a simple ‘finger test’ could help identify lung cancer in its early stages, potentially proving life-saving. Whilst well-recognised warning signs such as chest discomfort, shortness of breath, and wheezing are commonly known, indicators can also appear in the hands prior to these red flags.
To perform the test, people should begin by placing their fingernails together. The Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation then advises asking one crucial question: Can you see a small diamond-shaped gap?
If the answer is no, this might suggest finger clubbing – a symptom present in approximately 35% of non-small cell lung cancer cases and 4% of those with small cell lung cancer. According to the Express, the UK’s premier lung cancer charity explains: “While not having this diamond-shaped window does not automatically indicate lung cancer, it can be a symptom.
“If you think your nails are clubbed, speak to your doctor.” It’s essential to understand that any associated finger clubbing typically progresses slowly, generally beginning at the nail’s base before extending outwards, causing the nails to bend more dramatically than normal.
Cancer Research highlights that nail bed softening and skin reddening around the area are also frequent warning signals. Sometimes, these changes can develop over several years.
“Finger clubbing means there are certain changes in the shape of your fingers and fingernails,” the charity explains. “It is also called digital clubbing or Hippocratic fingers. People with conditions such as heart or lung problems sometimes have these changes.”
This crucial advice comes as lung cancer continues to be among the most common forms of the disease. NHS statistics reveal that more than 43,000 people across the UK receive a lung cancer diagnosis annually.
Whilst lung cancer presents itself in different ways, many people will go on to develop several additional worrying symptoms. These typically encompass the following:
- Persistent coughing
- Breathlessness
- Coughing up blood
- Unexplained fatigue and weight loss
- Pain or aches when breathing or coughing
NHS guidance adds: “Lung cancer mainly affects older people. It’s rare in people younger than 40. More than four out of 10 people diagnosed with lung cancer in the UK are aged 75 and older.
“Although people who have never smoked can develop lung cancer, smoking is the most common cause (accounting for more than 70 out of 100 cases). This is because smoking involves regularly inhaling a number of different toxic substances.
“You should see a GP if you have these symptoms.”
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