Lung Cancer
Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the lungs, often in the cells lining the air passages. It is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Lung cancer is primarily caused by smoking, but nonsmokers can also develop it due to genetic factors, exposure to radon gas, asbestos, or secondhand smoke. There are two main types of lung cancer, categorized based on how the cells appear under a microscope: non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC).
Types of Lung Cancer
TB is curable with a regimen of antibiotics taken over six to nine months. The standard treatment is the DOTS (Directly Observed Treatment, Short-Course) approach, which includes:
Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)
This is the most common form, making up around 85% of cases. NSCLC has three main subtypes Adenocarcinoma and Large Cell Carcinoma
Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC)
Comprising about 10-15% of cases, SCLC is more aggressive, grows quickly, and often spreads early. It is almost exclusively linked to heavy smoking.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing lung cancer involves a combination of imaging and tissue sampling:
- Imaging Tests: Chest X-rays, CT scans, and PET scans help locate and size the tumor and check for spreading.
- Biopsy: Involves collecting tissue samples for analysis, usually through bronchoscopy, needle biopsy, or surgical procedures.
- Molecular Testing: Examines genes, proteins, and other tumor markers to help determine the best treatment strategy.
Symptoms
- Persistent cough
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Hoarseness
- Unintended weight loss
- Fatigue
Treatment
- Surgery
- Radiation Therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Targeted Therapy
- Immunotherapy
- Palliative Care
Prevention
- Avoid Smoking
- Avoid Secondhand Smoke
- Test for Radon
- Workplace Safety
- Healthy Diet and Exercise
