Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. During November, many organizations aim to raise awareness over death rates of lung cancer and preventative measures. While people who smoke have the greatest risk of lung cancer, people who receive second-hand smoke or never smoked can also develop lung cancer. Knowing about the symptoms and treatment, thus, helps people practice healthy habits that could help reduce the risks of lung cancer.
Lung Cancer: What is it?
Lung cancer is a type of cancer that forms in the lungs. Cancer is understood as a disease in which cells in the body grow out of control. While cancer begins in the lung, it can spread to the lymph nodes or other organs in the body. Researchers believe smoking causes lung cancer due to the damage it causes to the cells which line the lung. As cigarette smoke damages the lining, many cigarettes are filled with cancer-causing substances (carcinogens), affecting the body immediately. Although the body can repair the initial damage to the lung, repeated exposure damages the lungs and causes cells to act abnormally, leading to the potential development of cancer. Some of the symptoms of lung cancer are:
- A new cough that doesn’t go away
- Coughing up blood (even in small amounts)
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Hoarseness
- Losing weight without trying
- Bone pain
- Headache
It is also important to note that lung cancer doesn’t typically cause signs or symptoms in the early stages. These signs and symptoms usually present themselves once the disease is already advanced. If these symptoms are persistent, be sure to make an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible.
Prevention
There is no secure way to prevent lung cancer, but many steps can be taken to reduce your risk.
Don’t smoke
If you don’t smoke, don’t start now. Smoking drastically increases the risk of lung cancer. Be sure to begin conversations about the dangers of smoking with your children, so they don’t fall under peer pressure.
If you do smoke, stop smoking
Quitting drastically reduces the risk of lung cancer, even if you’ve smoked for years. If you have trouble quitting, talk to your doctor about strategies, medication, resources, and more to help you stop smoking.
Avoid secondhand smoke
If you live with a smoker, urge them to quit. If not, tell them to smoke outside. Be sure to avoid areas where people smoke, such as bars and restaurants, or seek smoke-free options.
Eat a diet full of fruits and veggies
Having a good healthy diet with a variety of fruit and veggies promotes resiliency. Food sources of vitamins and minerals are best. Be sure to avoid taking large doses of vitamins and minerals in pill form as they can be harmful.
Exercise most days of the week
If you don’t exercise regularly, start out slowly by taking a walk for 30 minutes every day. The important thing about exercise is making it a part of your daily routine.
This November, be sure to take steps to prevent lung cancer. Talk to your family members and advocate for smokers to quit. These simple conversations can help prevent severe health risks and lower the number of lung-cancer-related deaths.
Resources and References:Â Â
https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/lung/basic_info/what-is-lung-cancer.htm
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/lung-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20374620
https://www.lung.org/lung-force/about-lung-force/featured-campaigns/lung-cancer-awareness-month
https://lcfamerica.org/lung-cancer-info/lung-cancer-facts/#1543338163380-b2df265a-237f
