If you’ve ever worked in a role that might have brought you into contact with harmful substances and lung irritants, you may be aware that your lung health may be at risk. Jobs in the building trade, firefighting, and similar industries can expose workers to hazardous materials that increase the likelihood of developing occupational lung diseases like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or even lung cancer.  Lung conditions can be caused by long-term exposure to a variety of substances, including:

• Dust particles
• Chemicals
• Fungal spores
• Animal droppings
• Gases
• Metals

Common symptoms of occupational lung diseases can be wide ranging, including coughing, shortness of breath and even chest pain.  Whilst there is often no cure for occupational lung diseases, early treatment can slow their progression, lessen symptoms, and improve and quality of life.

At the Queen Square Imaging Centre, we offer specialist lung health assessment using ultra-low dose Computed Tomography scanning (LDCT) to help detect lung damage early, offering a proactive way to manage and protect your health.

Occupational Hazards and Lung Health

Certain industries carry a heightened risk of occupational lung disease due to exposure to harmful substances. Common irritants include:

– Asbestos: Often found in building materials, asbestos exposure has been linked to lung cancer and a condition called asbestosis.

– Smoke: Firefighters and workers exposed to industrial smoke or fumes face an elevated risk of respiratory issues.

– Chemical irritants: Exposure to materials such as silica, solvents, metals and diesel exhaust can damage lung tissue over time.

Even if your contact with these substances was years ago, the long-term effects can still manifest later in life.  Subsequently, routine lung health checks have greater importance so that conditions can be recognised, and effective treatment commenced at the earliest opportunity.

The Impact of COPD and Other Conditions

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common lung condition that is often associated with smoking but can also result from prolonged occupational exposure to irritants like chemicals or dust. The UK estimates that around 1.2 million people are living with COPD, with many cases going undiagnosed and untreated until the disease has progressed.

Early symptoms of COPD may include breathlessness, chronic cough, and frequent chest infections.  However, because the condition develops slowly, many people ignore these early warning signs. Regular lung screening, especially for those with occupational exposure, can help catch the disease early, improving treatment options and quality of life.

How Low-Dose CT Screening Can Help

Low-dose CT scans are an effective tool for detecting early signs of lung disease, including both cancer and non-cancerous conditions like COPD. Low dose CT scans use lower levels of radiation compared to traditional CT scans, making them safer while still offering highly detailed images.

At the Queen Square Imaging Centre, our specialist lung health assessment includes:

– A Low-dose CT scan, a quick and non-invasive scan with minimal radiation exposure, scheduled at a time of your choosing.  Same-day appointments are always available.

–  Specialist reporting by a Consultant Radiologist who specialises in heart and lung conditions.  Our radiologists use advanced AI to assist them in identifying and characterising findings, revealing additional information that would not be possible through a conventional scan and report.  Your results will be issued within 24 hours of your scan.

– Specialist follow-up with a Consultant Lung Physician.  With your scan results released within 24 hours, we will schedule an appointment with a specialist consultant so that you can discuss your results without delay, giving you peace of mind and the information you need to take further action if necessary.  If you have been referred for your scan by your own doctor, we will release results directly to them.

What does a lung health assessment cost?

At the Queen Square Imaging Centre, our specialist lung health assessment package costs £699.  This includes your scan, the specialist report and a follow up consultation with a consultant lung physician. 

Who Should Consider a Lung Health Assessment?

You may benefit from a lung health assessment if you have ever worked in a job where you were exposed to:

– Asbestos (construction, shipbuilding, demolition)

– Smoke (firefighters, welders, industrial workers)

– Dust, chemicals, or fumes (mining, manufacturing, or chemical plants)

– or any other lung irritant.

Even if you are currently symptom-free, lung disease can develop over time. Early detection allows for better treatment options and improved outcomes.

How do I arrange a Lung Health Assessment?

You do not necessarily need to be referred for a lung health assessment at the Queen Square Imaging Centre.  If you feel that you may benefit from assessment, simply get in touch.  We will ask you some questions about your history and general health to determine your eligibility.  If you are eligible, we will arrange your referral so we can then go ahead with scheduling a scan appointment for you.

If you have been referred for a scan by your GP or another consultant, simply send us your referral.

Taking Action

Occupational exposure to lung irritants is a serious risk factor for lung disease, but it doesn’t mean lung health problems are inevitable. By scheduling a lung health assessment using a low-dose CT scan, you can take proactive steps to protect your long-term health.

If you’re concerned about your exposure to harmful substances in the workplace, book your lung health assessment at the Queen Square Imaging Centre today. Contact us by phone on 020 7833 2513, or by email to imaging@queensquare.com.

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