Lung Cancer

Lung Cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the lungs. It is one of the most common cancers worldwide, and is often caused by smoking cigarettes or exposure to secondhand smoke.

Causes

The primary cause of lung cancer is exposure to tobacco smoke, either through direct smoking or secondhand smoke. Other risk factors include exposure to radon gas, asbestos, certain air pollutants, and family history of lung cancer.

Types

There are two main types of lung cancer: Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and Small cell lung cancer (SCLC). NSCLC is the most common type, accounting for about 85% of all cases. SCLC makes up about 10-15% of all cases and tends to spread more quickly.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of lung cancer include a persistent cough, chest pain, hoarseness, weight loss, shortness of breath, and recurring infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia.

Diagnosis

Lung cancer is typically diagnosed through a combination of imaging tests, biopsies, and lab tests. Imaging tests such as X-rays and CT scans can reveal abnormal masses in the lungs, while biopsies can confirm the presence of cancer cells.

Treatment

Treatment for lung cancer depends on the type, stage, and the patient's overall health. Options include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted drug therapy.

Prevention

Prevention strategies for lung cancer primarily involve reducing exposure to risk factors. This includes quitting smoking, avoiding secondhand smoke, testing homes for radon, and taking precautions to avoid exposure to workplace carcinogens.

See also

• Cancer
• Tobacco smoking
• Radon
• Asbestos
• Air pollution