Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers in India. It develops in the lungs and can spread to other parts of the body if not detected early. Many factors contribute to lung cancer, including smoking, air pollution, and exposure to harmful chemicals.
It is important to understand lung cancer, its causes, symptoms, and treatment options, which are important for early diagnosis and better outcomes. This guide explains everything about lung cancer, including its types, stages, symptoms, causes, and treatment options.
Types of Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is usually divided into two main types:
- Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC): This is the most common type, accounting for about 80-85% of lung cancer cases. It includes adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and large-cell carcinoma. Each of these subtypes grows differently and may require different treatment approaches.
- Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC): This type is more aggressive and spreads quickly to other organs. It makes up about 10-15% of lung cancer cases. SCLC often requires chemotherapy and radiation due to its rapid progression.
Stages of Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is categorised into different stages based on how much it has spread.
- Stage I: Cancer is small and limited to the lungs. At this stage, surgery is often recommended to remove the tumour altogether.
- Stage II: The tumour has grown and may have spread to nearby lymph nodes. Treatment may include surgery, chemotherapy, or a combination of both.
- Stage III: At this stage, the cancer has spread to lymph nodes near the lung or other nearby structures. This stage often requires a combination of chemotherapy, radiation, and, in some cases, targeted therapy.
- Stage IV: This is the terminal stage of most kinds of cancers. Till now, it has spread to distant organs like the liver, bones, and brain. Treatment focuses on controlling cancer and improving quality of life through a mix of therapies.
Signs and Symptoms of Lung Cancer
Symptoms of lung cancer can be very similar to other respiratory conditions and can often be mistaken for other respiratory conditions. Recognising them early can help in timely diagnosis and treatment.
- Persistent Cough: A cough that does not go away or gets worse over time. It may be dry or produce mucus, sometimes with blood.
- Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing, even after mild activity. This can happen if a tumour blocks part of the lung or fluid builds up around it.
- Chest Pain: Discomfort in the chest that worsens with deep breathing or coughing. It may feel like pressure, tightness, or a sharp pain.
- Wheezing: A whistling sound while breathing due to airway blockage. This can occur when tumours press against the airways.
- Unexplained Weight Loss: Losing weight without changes in diet or exercise. This can happen because cancer affects metabolism.
- Coughing Up Blood: It should be an alarming sign if you see blood in a cough. You must seek immediate medical help. It may be a sign of advanced lung cancer.
Understanding Risk Factors and Causes
Lung cancer occurs when lung cells grow uncontrollably due to genetic mutations. Some risk factors increase the chances of developing lung cancer.
- Smoking: The leading cause of lung cancer. Active smoking is one of the significant causes of lung cancer. Passive smoking also increases the chances of lung cancer. Both active smoking and exposure to second-hand smoke increase the risk. The longer a person smokes, the higher the risk.
- Air Pollution: Many people ignore the damages caused by long-term air pollution exposure. It can elevate the risk of cancer a lot. This includes vehicle emissions, industrial smoke, and household pollution.
- Genetic Factors: If you have a family history of lung cancer, then you may have an increased likelihood of developing the disease. If close relatives have had lung cancer, regular screenings are recommended.
- Age Factor: Older individuals are at a higher risk of developing lung cancer. The risk increases after the age of 50.
- Exposure to Harmful Substances: Asbestos, arsenic, and diesel fumes are known to increase lung cancer risk. People working in construction, mining, or chemical industries should take protective measures.
How to Detect and Diagnose Lung Cancer?
Doctors use various tests to diagnose lung cancer. Early detection can improve treatment outcomes.
- Imaging Tests: Chest X-rays, CT scans, and PET scans help detect lung abnormalities. These tests help doctors determine the size and location of the tumour.
- Biopsy: This is the most common way to diagnose cancer. It involves taking a sample of lung tissue and examining it to confirm the presence of cancer. This is done through a needle biopsy, bronchoscopy, or surgical biopsy.
- Molecular Testing: Some lung cancers have genetic mutations that can be identified through specialised tests. This helps in selecting targeted treatments that work best for the patient.
How Do You Treat Lung Cancer?
Lung cancer treatment can vary a lot depending on the type, stage, and overall health of the patient. The standard treatment options include:
Immunotherapy: This is an advanced treatment option where the body’s immune system is boosted to detract and destroy the cancer cells more effectively. It is often used for advanced lung cancer or when other treatments are not effective.o go at the right pace and focus on feeling well while adjusting to work.
Surgery: Used in early-stage lung cancer to remove the tumour. Types include lobectomy, pneumonectomy, and segmentectomy. Surgery is only an option if the tumour has not spread beyond the lungs.
Radiation Therapy: In this treatment option, high-energy radiation damages the cancer cells. According to the patient’s condition, it can be used when surgery is not an option or to shrink tumours before surgery.
Chemotherapy: These traditional Strong drugs kill cancer cells and stop their growth. It is commonly used for advanced lung cancer or when surgery is not possible.
Targeted Therapy: This treatment blocks specific genetic mutations in cancer cells to slow their growth. It is helpful for patients whose tumours have specific genetic markers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Lung cancer is highly treatable if detected very early. In later stages, treatment helps manage symptoms and improve quality of life. The effectiveness of treatment depends on the type and stage of lung cancer.
Amerix Cancer Hospital is one of the leading hospitals in Delhi for lung cancer treatment. It provides expert care, advanced treatment options, and personalised patient support. Specialists ensure that each patient gets the best treatment based on their condition and medical history.
Smoking remains the primary cause of lung cancer, but non-smokers can also develop it. Air pollution, genetic factors, and exposure to harmful chemicals can also contribute to lung cancer. It is important to be aware of risk factors and take preventive measures.
Survival rates of lung cancer can vary a lot depending on the stage at which lung cancer is diagnosed. Early-stage lung cancer has a higher survival rate, while advanced-stage lung cancer is harder to treat. With new treatment options, many patients live longer and manage the disease better.
References
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4991146
https://www.cdc.gov/lung-cancer/about/index.html
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/lung-cancer/about/key-statistics.html
https://www.cdc.gov/lung-cancer/symptoms/index.html
https://www.cancercenter.com/cancer-types/lung-cancer/stages/stage-iv-lung-cancer
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21106301
https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/age
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-017-07737-0
