Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the lungs, usually in the cells lining the air passages. It is one of the most common types of cancer worldwide and is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths.

Lung cancer can be broadly categorized into two main types based on the appearance of cancer cells under a microscope

Non-small cell lung cancer
(NSCLC)

This is the most common type, accounting for about 80-85% of all lung cancer cases. It includes subtypes such as adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and large cell carcinoma

Small cell lung cancer
(SCLC)

This type is less common, accounting for about 10-15% of lung cancer cases. It tends to grow and spread more rapidly than NSCLC

Signs & Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of lung cancer can vary depending on the type of cancer, its location within the lungs, and whether it has spread to other parts of the body.

Persistent Cough

A cough that doesn't go away or gets worse over time

Shortness of Breath

Difficulty breathing or wheezing, especially with exertion

Chest Pain

Dull, aching pain in the chest, shoulder, or back, which may worsen with coughing or deep breathing

Coughing up blood

Blood-tinged sputum or coughing up blood

Hoarseness

Changes in voice, such as hoarseness or raspy voice

Unexplained weight loss

Loss of appetite and unintentional weight loss

Fatigue

Feeling tired or weak, even with minimal activity

Repeated respiratory infections

Frequent respiratory infections, such as bronchitis or pneumonia

The primary cause of lung cancer is exposure to carcinogens, substances that can cause cancer. The most significant risk factor for lung cancer is cigarette smoking, which accounts for the majority of cases. Other causes and risk factors include: 1. Secondhand smoke: Inhaling smoke from others' cigarettes, cigars, or pipes. 2. Exposure to radon: A naturally occurring radioactive gas that can seep into homes and buildings. 3. Exposure to asbestos and other carcinogens: Occupational exposure to substances such as asbestos, arsenic, chromium, nickel, and diesel exhaust can increase the risk of lung cancer. 4. Family history: A history of lung cancer in close relatives may increase the risk. 5. Personal history of lung disease: Chronic lung diseases such as COPD and pulmonary fibrosis can increase the risk of lung cancer. 6. Air pollution: Exposure to air pollution, including outdoor air pollution and indoor pollutants such as cooking fumes and wood smoke, may contribute to lung cancer risk.

In addition to the causes mentioned above, several factors can increase an individual's risk of developing lung cancer: 1. Smoking: Cigarette smoking is the single most significant risk factor for lung cancer. The risk increases with the number of cigarettes smoked and the duration of smoking. 2. Age: The risk of lung cancer increases with age, with the majority of cases diagnosed in people over the age of 65. 3. Gender: Historically, lung cancer has been more common in men than women, although the gap has been narrowing in recent years. 4. Family history: Having a close relative (parent, sibling, or child) with lung cancer increases the risk. 5. Exposure to radon: Living or working in an environment with high levels of radon gas increases the risk of lung cancer. 6. Exposure to asbestos and other carcinogens: Occupational exposure to asbestos, arsenic, chromium, and other carcinogens can increase the risk.

Lung Cancer

Lung cancer can be broadly categorized into two main types based on the appearance of cancer cells under a microscope

Non-small cell lung cancer
(NSCLC)