Symptoms of lung cancer
Lung cancer symptoms Most of them in the early stages are asymptomatic. Later, when the disease progresses, it may start with coughing, chest pain, and shortness of breath. Therefore, at-risk persons should undergo regular lung health check-ups. Especially those who smoke “cigarette” It is a major factor in the incidence of lung cancer and emphysema.
If you don’t smoke, you can get lung cancer.
However, although smoking is the main risk factor for lung cancer, But there are other factors. related, which at the moment, although there is still no clear answer why! People who have never smoked can get lung cancer. But there are several studies and studies that have found other causes. that may increase the risk of lung cancer especially exposure to substances and chemicals such as
1. Radon It is a ubiquitous radioactive substance that is tasteless, colorless, odorless and cannot be perceived by any human senses. It is the second leading cause of lung cancer in humans. following substances in cigarettes
2. Asbestos or Asbestos It is a carcinogen in products we use in our daily lives. Asbestos is harmful and toxic, causing lung cancer, kidney cancer and a cancer called mesothelioma. The substance is found in corrugated roof tiles, drains, floor tiles, ceilings, walls, insulation, hot water pipes, boilers. Steam and various molded plastics
3. Heavy chemicals
4. Inhalation of cigarette smoke from someone close to you (Second Hand Smoker)
5. Abnormal Genetics
Asst. Prof. Dr. Sira Laohathai, a thoracic surgeon specializing in endoscopic lung cancer surgery Phyathai 1 Hospital said…
“There is a study report that 30-40% of lung cancer patients in Asia are never smokers, with more than 50% of women never smoking. Unlike countries on the European continent. Only 10-20% of which have never smoked. But instead, he got lung cancer.”
An increasing number of women were diagnosed with lung cancer.
As for lung cancer, it is not common only in men. As can be seen from statistics in 2018 from a survey by the World Cancer Research Fund International around the world, it was found that there were 2 million new cases of lung cancer, and lung cancer was among women in the top 3. of all cancers
Types of Lung Cancer in Smokers vs. Non-Smokers
Characteristics of patients who smoke and non-smokers. Most non-smokers suffer from a type of cancer called sarcoma. Adenocarcinoma For patients who smoke, it is often found as Squamous Cell Carcinoma, which is usually found in the medium-sized bronchi. usually in the middle of the lung lobe This type of cancer is caused by the activation of inflammation. This poses a risk that may promote cancer. but the type of cancer Adenocarcinoma usually on the edge of the lungs It was also found that “Lung cancer patients who have never smoked are more likely to have gene abnormalities.” These include EGFR (epidermal growth factor), anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK), ROS1, and MET.
Prof. Dr. Sira said
“Treatment of lung cancer of smokers And non-smokers are quite similar, including surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. For surgery, it plays the main role in groups with early stage lung cancer, i.e. stages 1 and 2. Currently, lung surgery is not scary. longer We can perform laparoscopic surgery by using a technique called “Vats”, in which there is only one small incision of 3-4 cm. As a result, the patient will suffer less pain, recover faster and be able to quickly return to normal life. As for the treatment of stage 3 and 4 lung cancer patients, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and radiation will play a major role.”
Although lung cancer can happen to anyone. But prevention is better than cure. Therefore, those who smoke or are in close proximity to and must be exposed to cigarette smoke Please be aware of the danger. They should also avoid chemicals. or the risk of causing lung cancer should also exercise and eat healthy food And most importantly, regular health checks should not be overlooked. The sooner it is detected, the more likely it is to be cured. All this to reduce the chances of various cancers as well.
Article by : Asst. Prof. Dr. Sira Laohathai, a thoracic surgeon specializing in endoscopic lung cancer surgery Phyathai 1 Hospital
