Lung cancer is the third most common and deadliest type of cancer in men. Although it occurs mainly in people who have smoked for years, non-smokers are not at all spared. Indeed, these represent between 10 and 25% of the recorded cases. In the current article, we take stock of lung cancer by deciphering the causes, symptoms, life expectancy, etc.
The essentials regarding lung cancer to remember
As mentioned above, lung cancer is the third most common type of cancer and the leading cause of cancer death. Smokers or non-smokers, no one is spared. This is why it is essential to be well informed regarding the essentials.
Risk factors
What exactly causes this deadly disease? So among the lung cancer risk factors not only active and passive smoking are included, but also exposure to certain carcinogens, air pollution and others.
Symptoms
In the early stage of the disease, those affected may not show any symptoms. However, if manifestations do occur, they may resemble those of a respiratory infection. Here are the possible signs of lung cancer:
- voice changes
- frequent lung infections like bronchitis or pneumonia
- swollen lymph nodes in the middle of the chest
- persistent cough that gets worse
- chest pain
- shortness of breath and wheezing
As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms may develop:
- severe chest pain
- bone pain and fractures
- headache
- coughing up blood
- blood clots
- loss of appetite and weight
- unexplained tiredness
How to detect lung cancer?
As a general rule, regular prophylactic screening is recommended for people who are at high risk of developing lung cancer. Screening is done via a low-dose chest CT scan. The American Lung Association recommends this test for people who meet all of the following criteria:
- age from 55 to 80 years old
- history of heavy smoking
- smoking or quitting in the past 15 years
If you have symptoms specific to lung cancer or unusual CT scan results, the healthcare professional will likely recommend diagnostic tests. These include imaging examinations, tissue sampling or laboratory tests.
Processing
Treatment for lung cancer depends on a few factors including the type, location and stage of the cancer, the patient’s general health and personal preferences. All therapies can cause side effects. The treatment options are:
- surgery to remove part or all of a lung
- chemotherapy
- radiotherapy
- radiofrequency ablation
- targeted therapy
- immunotherapy
- palliative therapy
What is the life expectancy with lung cancer?
The earlier the diagnosis, the more it is possible to start a rapid treatment to improve the prognosis. Life expectancy depends on several factors including the stage of the tumour, its histological type, medical history, general state of health, etc.
The advent of new therapies such as immunotherapy increase life expectancy, but the prognosis remains grim.
*Source : Medical News Today
