Lung cancer
Lung cancer is a disease in which abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the lungs and may spread to other parts of the body. It is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide and commonly affects the respiratory system.
Lung cancer usually begins in the tissues lining the air passages of the lungs and may develop gradually over time.
Overview
Lung cancer affects normal lung function and interferes with breathing and oxygen exchange.
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The disease may spread from the lungs to nearby lymph nodes, bones, brain, liver, and other organs.
Common symptoms include:
- Persistent cough
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Coughing blood
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
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Types of Lung Cancer
Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common type and accounts for most lung cancer cases.
Major forms include:
- Adenocarcinoma
- Squamous cell carcinoma
- Large cell carcinoma
Small Cell Lung Cancer
Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is a more aggressive form that spreads rapidly and is strongly associated with smoking.
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Causes and Risk Factors
Major risk factors include:
- Smoking
- Secondhand smoke
- Air pollution
- Exposure to asbestos and chemicals
- Genetic factors
- Radiation exposure
Smoking is considered the leading cause of lung cancer worldwide.
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Symptoms
Common symptoms of lung cancer include:
- Chronic cough
- Wheezing
- Chest pain
- Hoarseness
- Difficulty breathing
- Coughing up blood
- Recurrent lung infections
- Unexplained weight loss
Symptoms may not appear during early stages of the disease.
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Diagnosis
Doctors diagnose lung cancer using several methods including:
- Chest X-ray
- CT scan
- PET scan
- Bronchoscopy
- Biopsy
- Sputum examination
Cancer staging helps determine the extent of disease spread.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the type and stage of lung cancer.
Common treatment methods include:
- Surgery
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Immunotherapy
- Targeted therapy
Early diagnosis improves treatment outcomes and survival rates.
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Prevention
Risk of lung cancer may be reduced through:
- Avoiding smoking
- Reducing pollution exposure
- Maintaining healthy lifestyle habits
- Regular medical screening for high-risk individuals
Complications
Possible complications include:
- Respiratory failure
- Spread of cancer
- Pleural effusion
- Severe infections
- Organ damage
Untreated lung cancer may become life-threatening.
Importance
Lung cancer is a major public health challenge worldwide. Awareness, early detection, smoking prevention, and modern medical treatments are important in reducing mortality.