One of the most prevalent and fatal cancers in the world, lung cancer, develops when there is excessive growth of abnormal cells in the lung. If it is not identified in time, it may spread to other areas of the body. Although smoking is frequently associated with lung cancer, other risk factors can also cause the disease to strike non-smokers.

Causes and Risk Factors

Smoking is considered one of the primary causes of lung cancer, which exposes the lungs to harmful carcinogens. However, other risk factors include:

  • Secondhand smoke: it’s the exposure to smoke from others that increases lung cancer risk.
  • Air pollution: long-term exposure to certain harmful toxins, carcinogens, or pollutants can contribute to lung damage.
  • Radon gas: it’s a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can accumulate in homes and buildings, which can lead to the development of lung cancer.
  • Genetic predisposition: a family history of lung cancer can increase risk.
  • Occupational exposure: jobs involving asbestos, arsenic, or other harmful chemicals.

Symptoms of Lung Cancer

Symptoms often appear in later stages and include:

  • Persistent and gradually worsening cough.
  • Excessive mucous/sputum production.
  • Coughing up blood (hemoptysis).
  • Breathing difficulty or shortness of breath.
  • Chest pain or chest discomfort.
  • Unexplained weight loss.
  • Fatigue, or generalized weakness, may or may not be associated with weight loss.
  • Hoarseness of voice.
  • Frequent lung infections (pneumonia, bronchitis).
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Diagnosis and Treatment

A multidisciplinary team of specialists is required to care for patients with lung cancer. Pulmonologists diagnose the disease, whereas oncologists administer chemotherapy and targeted treatments. Radiation oncologists provide radiation therapy, while thoracic surgeons perform tumor removal. Pathologists confirm diagnoses, while palliative care specialists manage symptoms, resulting in comprehensive and personalized care for each patient.

It is diagnosed through imaging tests (X-rays, CT scans), biopsies, and sputum analysis.

Treatment depends on the type and stage of cancer and may include:

  • Surgery: at an early-stage cancer.
  • Chemotherapy: these are the drugs to kill cancer cells.
  • Radiation therapy: this High-energy radiation to shrink tumors
  • Targeted therapy: drugs that attack specific cancer cell mutations.
  • Immunotherapy: to boost the immune system to fight cancer.

Early detection (low-dose CT scans) of high-risk individuals improves survival rates. Seeking medical attention for persistent lung symptoms is critical for a prompt diagnosis and treatment.