Lung Cancer Awareness: All You Need To Know About The Disease
Lung Cancer Awareness
Lung cancer accounts for 25% of all cancer-related deaths globally. As one of the most common cancer worldwide, lung cancer affects approximately 2.1 million people each year. This type of cancer is common in both men and women, and there are over a million cases of lung cancer each year in India. Lung cancer is the second most common cancer in males and the fifth most common cancer in both males and females together.
Causes of Lung Cancer
There are many causes of lung cancer, including occupational risk, environmental factors such as genetics and even air pollution. However, smoking has proven to be the most common cause of Lung cancer. Tobacco contains over 70 known carcinogens which causes a significant damage to the DNA, brain cells and lungs and airways.
Symptoms of Lung Cancer
Some symptoms of lung cancer are often generic or nonspecific for example:
· Persistent cough
· Wheezing
· Shortness of breath
· Coughing blood
· Pain in the chest or shoulder while coughing
· Losing weight
· Unexpected tiredness
Many people that get diagnosed with lung cancer do not show symptoms. However, if one faces any of these symptoms mentioned above, it suggested to consult a doctor.
Diagnosis and treatment options for Lung Cancer
Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) and Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC) are the two common forms of lung cancer worldwide. Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer is the more prevalent.
The treatment for lung cancer varies from local therapies such as surgery and radiation to systemic therapy like chemotherapy and targeted therapy. Patients may receive any one or a combinations of these treatments depending of the cancer type and stage it is in.
Another promising mode of treatment is being studied is immunotherapy. Immunotherapy is a technique that uses the body’s own immune system to fight cancer. With the help of precision medicine, the body's immune system is stimulated to recognize and attack cancer cells directly without harming the non-cancerous cells in the lungs. This method also has lesser side effects compared to other treatment options.
Lung cancer is treatable
Compared to a few decades ago, today there exist many more effective treatments for lung cancer. These treatment options have led to an increased chances of survival and have also improved the quality of life for people who were diagnosed with lung cancer. While early detection and treatment is ideal, it is essential to remember that lung cancer is quite treatable at any stage.
