The Department of Medicine reveals that lung cancer is the second leading cause of death in Thai people.
Today (16 September 2022) Dr. Somsak Ankasilp, MD. Director-General of the Medical Department The Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) revealed that lung cancer is the second leading cause of death in Thais, second in men after liver cancer and number 1 in women. However, early screening can be done. difficult and has a high mortality rate
“The main causes of this disease are: 1. Smoking, including various drugs. It is the most important cause of lung cancer. Smokers may be up to 10 times more likely to develop lung cancer than nonsmokers, including nonsmokers. But inhaling from cigarettes smoked by others has a higher risk than the general population. Because in cigarette smoke there are more than 60 types of carcinogens. 2. Asbestos (Asbestos) is a mineral used in many industries such as construction, building structures, brake pads, insulation. Or working in an environment with asbestos contaminants for a long time, it can take 15-35 years to cause lung cancer,” said Dr. Somsak, and that for non-smokers. but working with asbestos dust may be up to 5 times more likely to develop lung cancer than the general population
Director-General of the Medical Department said that 3. Other causes of pollution such as dust, PM 2.5, benzene, formaldehyde, etc. However, many lung cancer patients have never had a history of smoking or been exposed to asbestos before. There is currently no effective and cost-effective approach to lung cancer screening. When patients have abnormal symptoms, they tend to have the disease in the advanced stage. This makes early detection of the disease difficult and has a high mortality rate. current best way Therefore, it is also a matter of avoiding various risk factors.
side Dr. Sakan Bunnag Director of the National Cancer Institute added that Suspected symptoms of lung cancer include a persistent cough for more than 2 weeks, coughing up blood or sputum, chest pain, weight loss, tiredness, weakness, loss of appetite, and some may have a low-grade fever. or recurrent lung infections, which are not actually symptoms specific to lung cancer. May be found in other diseases, such as pulmonary tuberculosis, if suspected. Additional diagnostic tests are required.
“Diagnosis is made by radiography of the lungs (X-ray or CT scan) along with screening for cancer cells, such as sputum examination. or a lung biopsy When it was found to be lung cancer, of course. The doctor will provide information for the patient and relatives to make decisions. by considering the type of cancer Disease stage and progression The strength of the patient is the main Treatment includes surgery, medication, radiation, or a combination of treatments. Because lung cancer screening for early detection is difficult and has a high mortality rate, therefore, avoiding risk factors such as quitting smoking, protecting yourself from exposure to asbestos or pollution, avoiding high-fat diets. eat more fruits and vegetables exercise regularly and get enough rest to increase the body’s immunity It is important to seek medical attention when there are abnormal symptoms,” said Dr. Sakan.