Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the lungs, which are two spongy organs in the chest responsible for breathing. It is one of the leading causes of cancer deaths worldwide.
Symptoms
Lung cancer often doesn’t cause symptoms in its early stages. When symptoms do appear, they may include:
- A persistent cough that doesn’t go away
- Chest pain
- Coughing up blood
- Shortness of breath
- Hoarseness
- Weight loss without trying
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue
Causes and Risk Factors
The primary cause of lung cancer is smoking, which damages the cells lining the lungs. However, lung cancer can also occur in people who have never smoked. Other risk factors include:
- Exposure to secondhand smoke
- Exposure to radon gas
- Exposure to asbestos and other carcinogens
- Family history of lung cancer
Prevention
Preventive measures include:
- Quitting smoking and avoiding secondhand smoke
- Testing your home for radon
- Avoiding exposure to carcinogens at work
- Eating a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables
- Regular exercise
Treatment
Treatment options depend on the type and stage of the cancer and may include:
- Surgery: Removing the cancerous part of the lung
- Radiation therapy: Using high-energy rays to kill cancer cells
- Chemotherapy: Using drugs to kill cancer cells
- Targeted therapy: Using drugs that target specific abnormalities in cancer cells
- Immunotherapy: Boosting the immune system to fight cancer