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Lung Cancer
Lung Cancer- A guide to Symptoms, Risks, Prevention and Cure
Lung Cancer- Causes, Symptoms, Prevention and Cure
Lung cancer develops in the lungs and is one of the most common and deadly cancers worldwide. It often begins silently, without noticeable symptoms, and can spread to other organs if not detected early. Smoking is the most significant risk factor, but lung cancer can also occur in non-smokers due to genetic factors, environmental exposures, or air pollution.
As a medical oncologist, I’ve seen how early detection and advances in treatment, including surgery, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and radiation, can save lives and improve quality of life.
By understanding lung cancer — its causes, symptoms, and the importance of early screening — you are taking a crucial step toward awareness and potentially life-saving action.
What Is Lung Cancer?
Lung cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the lungs grow uncontrollably, forming tumors that can interfere with breathing and spread to other parts of the body. It typically starts in the lining of the airways and may not cause noticeable symptoms in the early stages.
Types of Lunch Cancer
Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) – ~85% of cases
Includes adenocarcinoma (most common in non-smokers), squamous cell carcinoma, and large cell carcinoma.Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC) – ~15% of cases
Fast-growing and strongly associated with smoking; often spreads quickly.
Rare types include lung carcinoid tumors, which are generally slower-growing.
Sign and Symptoms of Lung Cancer
Early symptoms may be mild or mistaken for other conditions. Common signs include:
Persistent cough (lasting more than 3 weeks)
Chest pain that worsens with deep breathing or coughing
Shortness of breath
Coughing up blood (hemoptysis)
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue
Hoarseness
Frequent respiratory infections (e.g., pneumonia, bronchitis)
Note: Not all symptoms indicate cancer, but persistent or worsening symptoms should be evaluated by a doctor.
Risk Factors for Lung Cancer
Major risk factors include:
Smoking: Causes ~85% of lung cancer cases; includes cigarettes, cigars, and pipes.
Secondhand smoke: Increases risk by 20–30% in non-smokers.
Radon exposure: A naturally occurring radioactive gas found in homes and buildings.
Asbestos and occupational exposure: Common in construction, mining, and shipbuilding.
Air pollution: Especially fine particulate matter (PM2.5).
Family history of lung cancer
Previous radiation therapy to the chest
Note: Risk increases with age, particularly after 50.
Lung Cancer Screening and Early Detection
Low-dose CT (LDCT) scans are recommended for high-risk individuals:
Aged 50–80
Current or former smokers with a 20+ pack-year history
Quit smoking within the past 15 years
Screening can reduce lung cancer deaths by up to 20% by detecting cancer at an earlier, more treatable stage.
When to See a Doctor?
Seek medical advice if you experience:
A cough that doesn’t go away or worsens
Unexplained chest pain or breathlessness
Blood in your sputum
Sudden weight loss or fatigue
If you have a history of smoking or other risk factors, talk to your doctor about lung cancer screening, even if you feel fine.
Treatment Options for Lung Cancer
Treatment depends on the type and stage of cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health:
Surgery: Often used in early-stage NSCLC.
Radiation Therapy: Targets cancer cells using high-energy rays.
Chemotherapy: Kills rapidly growing cells; used alone or with other treatments.
Targeted Therapy: Blocks specific mutations (e.g., EGFR, ALK, ROS1) found in some lung cancers.
Immunotherapy: Boosts the immune system to fight cancer.
Palliative Care: Focuses on symptom relief and improving quality of life at any stage.
Note: Advances in precision medicine are improving survival and quality of life.
Some Facts vs Myths about Lung Cancer
Myths
Only smokers get lung cancer.
Lung cancer is always fatal.
If you don’t have symptoms, you’re fine.
Screening is harmful or unnecessary.
Quitting smoking won’t help if you've smoked for years.
Facts
Up to 20% of lung cancer cases occur in non-smokers.
Early-stage lung cancer is treatable and often curable.
Lung cancer often has no symptoms until advanced stages.
LDCT scans can detect cancer early and save lives.
Risk starts to drop within months of quitting and continues to decline over time.
