Lung Cancer

Lung cancer develops when abnormal cells in the lungs grow uncontrollably and form tumors. It is one of the most common and deadliest cancers worldwide, often linked to smoking but also seen in non-smokers.

There are two main types:

• Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC): The most common type, accounting for about 85% of cases.
• Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC): Less common but more aggressive and faster-spreading.

In early stages, lung cancer may not show obvious symptoms. As the disease progresses, symptoms can include:

• Persistent cough that does not go away
• Coughing up blood or rust-colored sputum
• Shortness of breath or wheezing
• Chest pain, especially while breathing deeply or coughing
• Frequent respiratory infections such as bronchitis or pneumonia
• Unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite
• Fatigue and weakness
• Hoarseness in the voice

Lung cancer staging helps determine how far the disease has spread and guides treatment.

• Stage I: Cancer is confined to the lungs and is small in size.
• Stage II: Cancer may be larger and may have spread to nearby lymph nodes.
• Stage III: Cancer has spread to lymph nodes in the chest or nearby structures.
• Stage IV: Cancer has spread to both lungs, the fluid around the lungs, or distant organs like the liver, bones, or brain.

Depending on type and stage, options include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.

The primary cause of lung cancer is tobacco smoking, but there are several other factors:

• Smoking: Accounts for over 80% of lung cancer cases.
• Secondhand smoke: Exposure increases risk even for non-smokers.
• Air pollution: Long-term exposure to polluted air raises risk.
• Occupational exposure: Asbestos, radon, arsenic, and other industrial chemicals.
• Genetics: Family history of lung cancer increases susceptibility.
• Radiation therapy: Previous chest radiation may increase risk.

Many lung cancer cases can be prevented with lifestyle changes:

• Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke.
• Reduce exposure to workplace toxins and wear protective equipment.
• Get homes tested for radon levels if living in high-risk areas.
• Maintain a healthy diet rich in antioxidants from fruits and vegetables.
• Stay physically active to boost overall lung health.
• Go for regular check-ups if you have a smoking history or occupational risk.

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide.

• Each year, more than 2.2 million new cases are diagnosed globally.
• In India, lung cancer accounts for about 6.9% of all cancers and 9.3% of cancer deaths.
• Smokers are 15–30 times more likely to develop lung cancer than non-smokers.
• The overall 5-year survival rate for lung cancer is about 20%, but survival rates are significantly higher when detected early.