What criteria should I use to refer a patient for suspected lung cancer under the two-week wait pathway?

Guideline-aligned answer with reasoning, red flags and references. Clinically reviewed by Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGP.

Posted: 14 August 2025Updated: 14 August 2025 Guideline-Aligned (High Confidence) Clinically Reviewed
Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX

Refer people using a suspected cancer pathway referral (for an appointment within 2 weeks) for lung cancer if they have chest X-ray findings that suggest lung cancer .

Additionally, refer if they are aged 40 years and over with unexplained haemoptysis .

Offer an urgent chest X-ray (to be performed within 2 weeks) to assess for lung cancer in people aged 40 years and over with two or more of the following unexplained symptoms: cough, fatigue, shortness of breath, chest pain, weight loss, or appetite loss, provided symptoms are unexplained after initial assessment .

Consider an urgent chest X-ray in people aged 40 years and over with persistent or recurrent chest infection .

Related Knowledge Topics

Educational content only. Always verify information and use clinical judgement.