Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is caused by uncontrolled cell division in the lungs. Your cells naturally divide and replicate themselves. However, they may experience alterations (mutations) that cause them to multiply. Damaged cells divide uncontrolled, forming lumps, or tumors, of tissue that eventually prevent your organs from functioning properly. Lung cancer refers to tumors that originate in the lungs, typically in the airways (bronchi or bronchioles) or small air sacs (alveoli).
At ILS hospitals, lung cancer treatment is tailored to each patient using a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation and targeted therapy. Our multidisciplinary team uses advanced diagnostic tools, such as CT scans, PET scans, and biopsies, to accurately diagnose and stage the cancer. Based on the type and stage of the disease, we develop personalized treatment plans that focus on improving outcomes and quality of life. We ensure comprehensive care throughout every stage of lung cancer treatment.
Lung Cancer Staging
The process is conducted to determine the size and spread of cancer, which helps us take an appropriate course of action for its treatment. The basic staging system for lung cancer is as follows: Stage 0, Stage I, Stage II, Stage III, and Stage IV.
Symptoms
The majority of lung cancer symptoms resemble other, less serious ailments. Many people do not experience symptoms until the disease has progressed, while some experience them early on. Those who have symptoms may just have one or a few of the following:
- A cough that persists or worsens over time.
- Dyspnea is a condition characterized by difficulty breathing.
- Chest pain or discomfort.
- Wheezing.
- Coughing up blood (hemoptysis).
- Hoarseness.
- Loss of appetite.
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Unexplained fatigue (tiredness).
- Shoulder pain.
- Swelling in the face, neck, arms, and upper chest (superior vena cava syndrome).
- Horner’s syndrome is characterized by a small pupil and drooping eyelid in one eye, as well as little or no sweating on that side of the face.
Causes
Causes of Lung Cancer:
- Smoking is the leading cause, accounting for 85% of cases; tobacco smoke contains carcinogens.
- Secondhand Smoke: Inhalation of smoke from others’ cigarettes increases the risk.
- Radon Exposure: A radioactive gas that occurs naturally and can accumulate indoors.
- Asbestos Exposure: Inhalation of asbestos fibres, often in occupational settings, increases the risk.
- Air Pollution: Prolonged exposure to environmental pollutants like vehicle emissions can contribute.
- Genetic Factors: Family history and certain inherited gene mutations can raise susceptibility.
- Previous Lung Disease: Conditions such as COPD or tuberculosis can increase the risk.
Diagnosis
Instead of jumping to a conclusion, our diagnosis involves a series of steps:
During your first visit to a healthcare provider, they will normally listen to your symptoms, ask about your medical history, and perform a physical exam. Because lung cancer symptoms are similar to those of many other, more prevalent conditions, the doctor may begin by prescribing blood tests and a chest X-ray.
If lung cancer is suspected, the following steps in diagnosis will usually include more imaging tests, such as a CT scan, followed by a biopsy. Other tests include a PET/CT scan to assess whether cancer has spread, as well as testing of malignant tissue obtained from a biopsy to help select the best course of treatment.
Treatment
Our main goal is to either eliminate or slow the spread of cancer in your body. Treatments can eradicate malignant cells, help destroy or prevent them from proliferating, or train your immune system to combat them.
Some treatments are also used to alleviate symptoms and pain. Your therapy will be determined by the type of lung cancer you have, its location, the extent to which it has spread, and a variety of other factors. Treatments for lung cancer include surgery, radiofrequency ablation, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted medication therapy, and immunotherapy.
Prevention
Since the ‘exact’ cause of cancer is not known, preventive actions are aimed at lowering its risk. Here are some strategies that can be undertaken:
- Do not smoke, or quit if you already do. Within five years of stopping, your risk of developing lung cancer decreases.
- Avoid secondhand smoke and other substances that can damage your lungs.
- Maintain a healthy diet and weight. According to several studies, eating fruits and vegetables (two to six and a half cups per day) may help reduce your risk of cancer.
- If you have a high risk of developing lung cancer, get screened.
