What is Lung Cancer?
Lung cancer, is one of the most common and deadly types of cancer worldwide. Millions of people struggle with this disease every year and many lose their lives. Lung cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the lung tissue and is usually associated with factors such as smoking, air pollution and genetic factors. However, the fact that this disease is also seen in non-smokers increases the seriousness of the issue.
Lung Cancer Symptoms
There are usually no symptoms in the early stages of lung cancer. However, in later stages, some symptoms begin to appear. These symptoms are:
- Chronic cough: A persistent cough is one of the most common symptoms of lung cancer.
- Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing during physical activity or at rest.
- Chest pain: Pain felt especially when taking a deep breath.
- Weight loss: Unexplained weight loss is a sign that your body is fighting an illness.
- Bloody sputum: Seeing blood in the sputum is a situation that requires immediate medical attention.
Risk factors
There are many risk factors for lung cancer. The most important of these factors are:
- To smoke: Smoking is the most important cause of lung cancer. Smokers are 30 times more likely to develop lung cancer than nonsmokers.
- Air pollution: People living in industrial areas are especially at higher risk due to air pollution.
- Genetic predisposition: Individuals with a family history of lung cancer also have an increased risk.
- Occupational exposure: People exposed to asbestos, radon, and certain chemicals have an increased risk of lung cancer.
Diagnosis of Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is diagnosed using various tests and imaging methods. These methods include:
- Physical examination: The doctor evaluates the patient's cough, shortness of breath, and other symptoms.
- Imaging tests: Abnormalities in the lungs are detected using methods such as chest X-ray, CT scan, and PET scan.
- Bronchoscopy: A tube is placed into the lungs to allow examination of the internal structure.
- Biopsy: A sample is taken from the suspicious tissue to investigate the presence of cancer cells.
Lung Cancer Treatment
Lung cancer treatment varies depending on the stage and type of disease and the patient's general health. Treatment methods include:
- Surgical intervention: Surgeries performed to completely remove cancerous tissue.
- Radiotherapy: Using high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells.
- Chemotherapy: Using drugs to stop the growth of cancer cells.
- Targeted therapy: Treatment with drugs specifically targeted to cancer cells.
Lung Cancer Prevention Methods
Some precautions can be taken to protect yourself from lung cancer. These precautions include:
- Quitting smoking: Not smoking or quitting smoking significantly reduces the risk of lung cancer.
- Paying attention to air quality: Avoiding living in areas with high air pollution and using a mask.
- Regular health checks: It is especially important for individuals in the risk group to have regular health checks.
- Balanced diet: A diet rich in fruits and vegetables strengthens the immune system.
Conclusion
Lung cancer is a serious health problem and a preventable disease. It is possible to combat this disease by adopting healthy lifestyle habits, early diagnosis and treatment methods. Every individual needs to pay attention to their lung health and minimize risk factors.
