Doctor shares 6 ‘missed’ lung cancer symptoms as Eminem’s mum dies of condition

Eminem’s mother, Debbie Nelson, tragically passed away this week at the age of 69 after battling advanced lung cancer. Her diagnosis was made public in September, sparking renewed interest in understanding the often ‘missed’ symptoms of lung cancer. Dr Nighat Arif, an NHS GP, has taken to social media to share valuable insights with her followers. With a substantial following of 247,000 on TikTok, Dr Arif is known for providing health advice online and appearing on ITV’s This Morning.

In a segment on This Morning, Dr Arif highlighted some ‘less common’ symptoms of lung cancer, such as fatigue, unintentional weight loss, and coughing up blood. She also mentioned that repeated chest infections, often dismissed as pneumonia, could be a sign of lung cancer. Dr Arif emphasised the importance of being vigilant when experiencing persistent chest infections and advised seeking further medical evaluation if symptoms persist.

It is crucial to address symptoms such as a prolonged cough, unintentional weight loss, and shortness of breath promptly, as early detection plays a key role in the prognosis of lung cancer. Dr Arif stressed the importance of not overlooking symptoms and promptly consulting a healthcare professional for appropriate testing and evaluation. Various symptoms, including changes in finger appearance, difficulty swallowing, wheezing, or swelling of the face or neck, can also indicate lung cancer, according to the NHS website.

Despite being financially supportive, Eminem, whose real name is Marshall Bruce Mathers, reportedly had a strained relationship with his mother and has been estranged from her for several years. The news of Debbie Nelson’s passing serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of raising awareness about lung cancer and recognising its symptoms early to improve outcomes for patients.

In summary, the passing of Eminem’s mother due to lung cancer has shed light on the significance of recognising the symptoms of this devastating disease. Dr Nighat Arif’s efforts to educate the public about the ‘missed’ symptoms of lung cancer serve as a valuable reminder to prioritise early detection and seek medical attention promptly. This tragic event underscores the importance of raising awareness about lung cancer and the critical role of early intervention in improving patient outcomes.