Finger Test: A Simple Clue to Lung Cancer?

Medical professionals have highlighted a simple 'finger test' that could aid in the early detection of lung cancer. This test involves pressing fingernails together and observing if a small, diamond-shaped gap is visible. The absence of such a gap may indicate finger clubbing, a condition associated with lung cancer. This symptom can appear before more recognized signs like chest pain or shortness of breath emerge. Approximately 35% of non-small cell lung cancer patients and 4% of small cell lung cancer patients may exhibit finger clubbing. It is crucial to consult a doctor if finger clubbing is suspected, as it can develop slowly over time, starting from the nail base and progressing to noticeable curvature of the nails. Additional signs include softening of the nail bed and inflammation around the nails. Lung cancer is a prevalent form of cancer in the UK, with over 43,000 diagnoses annually. While smoking is the primary cause, accounting for over 70% of cases, non-smokers can also develop the disease. The majority of lung cancer diagnoses in the UK occur in individuals aged 75 and older.