Lung cancer- Symptoms, Treatments, and Medications Lung cancer is considered to be the most leading cause of cancer death globally. It is a type of cancer that produces small cancer cells in the lungs. There are two organs in your chest. One is used to inhale the oxygen and another one is to exhale the oxygen. People who are addicted to smoking usually have the highest risk of lung cancer. Even if you quit smoking, it will reduce the chance of developing cancer in your lungs. Initially, at the early ages of lung cancer, none of the symptoms occurs. The symptoms start occurring when the disease increases. Symptoms of Lung Cancer are as• • • • • • •
Long time cough Coughing with the blood Shortness of breath Chest pain Losing weight Bone pain Headache
Doctors believe that smoking is the main cause of lung cancer. Lung cancer is divided into two main types of cancer Small cell lung cancer: Small cell lung cancer occurs in heavy smokers and it’s a less common type of lung cancer Non-small cell lung cancer: It’s an umbrella term for different kinds of cancer that are squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, and large cell carcinoma. Other risk factors of lung cancer are • • • •
Any previous radiation therapy Exposure to radon gas Exposure to asbestos and other carcinogens Family history of any type of cancer
There is not any specific prevention for lung cancer but you can reduce your risk by • • • • • •
Not smoking Avoid secondhand smoke Test your home for radon. Avoid carcinogens at work Try to eat more fruits and vegetables Exercise most of the days of the week