Lung Cancer
It is the abnormal growth of lung cells for any reason, leading to tumor development. This occurs over a long period and insidiously. Due to its insidious nature, early diagnosis is difficult. However, it is among the types of cancer that cause the most deaths. If diagnosed early, it is possible to achieve a normal life expectancy with new treatment models.
What are the causes of lung cancer?
In 80-85% of individuals with lung cancer, the cause is the use of tobacco or tobacco products. Smoking leads to changes in lung cells over the years, resulting in cancer development. This group also includes patients with COPD who have developed due to the use of tobacco products. This exposure does not discriminate by gender; in fact, women who smoke for a shorter duration and with less intensity are at greater risk. Passive smoking also poses a significant risk and is included in this group. Lung cancer can also be seen in non-smokers, albeit at a lower rate. In this group, the most important factors are the individual’s occupational (chemical or radioactive substances, asbestos, exhaust fumes, coal or other mineral dust) and environmental exposures (asbestos, air pollution, radon gas that contaminates indoor environments, or smoke released from certain substances used for heating). Genetic changes may explain its more frequent occurrence in some families.
What are the symptoms of lung cancer?
- The most common symptom is a cough. A long-lasting cough that cannot be explained by another reason, especially an increase in the existing cough in patients with COPD.
- Chest pain, especially worsening with deep breathing, coughing, or laughing.
- Hoarseness.
- Unexplained weight loss, decreased appetite.
- Coughing up phlegm, especially bloody or rusty phlegm, or an increase in the amount of phlegm.
- Shortness of breath, especially increased shortness of breath in patients with COPD.
- New onset wheezing.
How can lung cancer be diagnosed early?
In lung cancer, reaching an early diagnosis based on the patient’s complaints is very unlikely. Most patients find that their disease has progressed during the time they wait for their complaints to pass. Therefore, it is recommended that individuals at high risk undergo regular low-dose lung CT scans without symptoms. These high-risk groups include:
- Individuals over 55 years old who have smoked one pack of cigarettes a day for 30 years.
- Patients with COPD who have a history of smoking.
- Individuals with occupational or environmental exposures.
- Individuals who have scarring in their lungs due to another disease.
Is it possible to treat lung cancer?
It is possible for patients who can be diagnosed early. These patients can often achieve complete results through surgery and additional treatment models. With new treatment models today, the life expectancy of individuals with partially advanced disease can also be extended.
