The Pat Kenny Show Lung cancer the deadliest cancer in Ireland
Nov 17, 2025
Susan Leatham, a lung cancer patient and advocate, shares her journey from diagnosis to treatment after her 2021 discovery, emphasizing the surprising prevalence among non-smokers. Joining her is Helen Forristal from the Marie Keating Foundation, who introduces the innovative "Breathless Collection" campaign aimed at raising awareness. They discuss the stigma surrounding lung cancer, recognizing symptoms, and the importance of early detection. Both guests highlight the advancements in treatment options and underline that anyone with lungs can be affected.
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Unexpected Diagnosis After Vague Symptoms
- Susan Leatham described finding a 2.2 cm tumour after persistent fatigue and joint pain led to a CT scan.
- She had no recent smoking history and the tumour was on the lung surface touching the chest wall.
Genetics Overrules Past Smoking
- Susan's tumour had a RET fusion mutation common in non-smokers, showing genetic causes matter.
- Biomarker testing clarified her cancer's origin beyond past smoking history.
Recurrence Found During Routine Monitoring
- Susan recounted a recurrence detected on a six-month monitoring CT that led to intensive chemo and radiotherapy.
- That relapse was in a lymph node and later required a year of immunotherapy.