RATES of breast and lung cancer have doubled worldwide in the past 30 years, new research shows.

But health bosses in Swindon say we should not be too alarmed by the figures.

Cancer Research UK says more than 1.1m cases of breast cancer are now being diagnosed each year.

This compared with about 500,000 cases in 1975, said the researchers who analysed a global database of 27 cancers.

Lung cancer is now the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the world, with around 1.4m new cases being identified each year.

Fewer than 600,000 cases were diagnosed in 1975.

The authors say the increase is largely a reflection of population growth and longer lifespans.

Michael Willson, manag-er of Cancer Services at Great Western Hospital, believes other factors must also be taken into account.

"I don't think people should read too much into these latest figures," he said.

"There are a number of factors that have to be taken into consideration.

"Even now with the help of MRI scans cancer can be hard to diagnose.

"Thirty or so years ago the technology was nowhere near as advanced as it now.

"It's possible that cases were not diagnosed."

Mr Willson said increased public awareness also explains the rise in the number of detected cases.

"People are much more aware of cancer these days," he said.

"In the 1970s the typical man would be very reluctant to visit his GP if he showed symptoms such as rectal bleeding."

In 1988 the National Breast Screening Programme was launched.

Mr Willson said: "All women aged between 50 and 70 are offered screening.

"As a result, more cases of the disease are being picked up." Soaring rates of lung cancer can be blamed on ignorance during the 1950s and 60s, he added.

"It was fashionable to smoke in that era," said Mr Willson.

"People didn't know about the harmful health effects.

"This type of cancer can take 30 or 40 years to show symptoms."

The report contained some good news, however.

Rates of stomach cancer the most common type of cancer in 1975 are falling because of improved home hygiene and food preser-vation.

And even though the overall incidence of cancer is rising in the UK, death rates are falling.

Prof John Toy, of Cancer Research UK, said: "Devel-oping and refining new treatments will continue to improve the chances of surviving the disease."

Help for smokers to give up

SWINDON Primary Care Trust has helped around 1,500 people quit smoking for four weeks or more since 2002. Jane Leaman, director of public health, said: "It is estimated that around 200 people die in Swindon each year due to smoking related disease. Giving up is one of the single best steps you can take towards leading a healthy lifestyle."

Kevin Shoesmith