Lung Cancer is the biggest cause of death in New Zealand. Every day 5 Kiwis die of lung cancer, and 6 are diagnosed. The high data rate is mainly because the disease is detected too late to the point where cancer has already spread to other body organs. Also, studies have established that 90% of lung cancers are attributed to tobacco use.
Lung cancer is a devastating disease that takes the lives of thousands of people every year. Therefore, it is essential to be aware of the symptoms of lung cancer so that you can get early treatment and improve your chances of survival.
Symptoms of lung cancer may include:
- A cough that does not go away
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing
- Coughing up blood
If you have any of these symptoms, you must see a doctor for a diagnosis. Early detection is critical for the successful treatment of lung cancer.
Causes
Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer in smokers and those exposed to secondhand smoke. Lung cancer, on the other hand, can develop in people who have never smoked and have never been exposed to secondhand smoke for a lengthy period of time. In rare cases, there may be no identifiable cause of lung cancer.
Smoking, according to doctors, causes lung cancer by destroying the cells that line the lungs. Changes in lung tissue occur quickly after inhaling cigarette smoke, which contains cancer-causing chemicals (carcinogens).
Your body may be able to heal the harm at first. However, the normal cells that line your lungs get further destroyed with each subsequent encounter. The damage leads cells to behave abnormally over time, and cancer may develop as a result.
Types of Lung Cancer:
Doctors divide lung cancer into two types based on how the cells appear under a microscope. Then, your doctor will offer treatment recommendations based on your lung cancer type.
Lung cancer is classified into two types:
- Small cell lung cancer. Small cell lung cancer, less prevalent than non-small cell cancer, affects virtually exclusively heavy smokers.
- Non-small cell lung cancer. Non-small cell lung cancer is a catch-all phrase for various lung malignancies. Squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, and large cell carcinoma are examples of non-small cell lung malignancies.
Treatment
Several treatment options for lung cancer are available, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The best treatment option for you will depend on your cancer stage and overall health.
If you are diagnosed with lung cancer, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible. Early treatment can improve your chances of survival. If you have any symptoms associated with lung cancer, be sure to see a doctor for a diagnosis.
Find this health information interesting?
Subscribe to MediWell – your free digital magazine with trustworthy advice on a wide range of health and wellness topics.
