Overview
Lung cancer is a type of cancer that originates in the tissues of the lungs. It is one of the leading causes of cancer deaths worldwide. People who smoke have the greatest risk of developing lung cancer, although it can also occur in non-smokers. The risk of lung cancer increases with the duration and amount of smoking. Quitting smoking can significantly reduce the chances of developing lung cancer. In its early stages, lung cancer usually does not have noticeable symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, symptoms may include a persistent cough, coughing up blood, shortness of breath, chest pain, hoarseness, and fluid accumulation in the chest cavity. Lung cancer can also spread to other parts of the body, causing pain, nausea, headaches, or other symptoms depending on the affected organ. There is no guaranteed way to prevent lung cancer, but quitting smoking and avoiding exposure to secondhand smoke can help reduce the risk.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
Symptoms of lung cancer may include a new cough that doesn't go away, coughing up blood, even a small amount, shortness of breath, chest pain, hoarseness, losing weight without trying, bone pain, and headache. It's important to see a doctor if you have persistent signs or symptoms that worry you. Quit smoking if you are a smoker, as it increases the risk of lung cancer.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for developing lung cancer include smoking, exposure to secondhand smoke, previous radiation therapy, exposure to radon gas, exposure to asbestos and other carcinogens, and family history of lung cancer. Other factors that may increase your risk of lung cancer include your age, habits like smoking and excessive sun exposure, and certain workplace exposures. Quitting smoking can significantly lower your risk of developing lung cancer, even if you have a family history of the disease.
Development
Lung cancer develops when the cells in the lungs are damaged by cancer-causing substances (carcinogens) found in cigarette smoke, such as in small cell lung cancer. Non-small cell lung cancer is an umbrella term for several types of lung cancers, including squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, and large cell carcinoma. These types of lung cancer can develop from normal cells that line the lungs, which are gradually damaged by repeated exposure to carcinogens, leading to abnormal cell growth and eventually cancer.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
You should see a doctor if lung cancer is suspected when you experience unexplained weight loss, shortness of breath, coughing up blood, or chest pain that worsens with deep breathing or coughing. See your doctor if you have any of these symptoms, especially if you are a smoker or have a history of smoking, or if you have been exposed to radon or asbestos. These symptoms may also indicate other lung conditions, so it's important to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan from a healthcare professional.
Diagnosis
To diagnose lung cancer, your doctor may perform a number of tests. These may include imaging tests such as X-rays or CT scans to detect abnormal masses or nodules in the lungs. Other diagnostic tests may involve mediastinoscopy, needle biopsy, or sputum cytology. A biopsy sample may be taken from the lungs or lymph nodes to analyze abnormal cell
Management and Treatment
Complications
Complications of lung cancer can include:
- Shortness of breath: Lung cancer can cause shortness of breath if it obstructs major airways or causes fluid buildup in the lungs.
- Coughing up blood: Cancerous cells can cause bleeding in the airways, leading to coughing up blood (hemoptysis).
- Pain: Advanced lung cancer that has spread to other areas, such as bones, can result in pain.
- Bone fractures: Lung cancer that has metastasized to the bones can increase the risk of bone fractures due to weakened bones.
- Infections: Lung cancer or its treatment can weaken the immune system, making patients more susceptible to infections.
- Swelling of the face, neck, or upper half of the body: Fluid buildup (edema) can occur due to lung cancer or its treatment, causing swelling in specific areas.
- Fatigue: Lung cancer and its treatments can lead to fatigue and weakness.
- Changes in mental function: Certain treatments can cause cognitive changes, such as memory loss, confusion, or difficulty concentrating.
- Malnutrition: Lung cancer and its treatments can cause loss of appetite, leading to weight loss and malnutrition.
- Anemia: Lung cancer or its treatments can cause a decrease in red blood cells, resulting in anemia and fatigue. It is important to discuss any concerns or symptoms with a healthcare provider, as they can provide guidance on managing and addressing these complications.
Prevention
There are ways to reduce the risk of lung cancer. The main preventive measures include not smoking or quitting smoking, avoiding secondhand smoke, and eating a healthy diet.
Treatment
Treatments for lung cancer include:
- Surgery: If the cancer is localized and operable, surgery may be performed to remove the affected lung tissue.
- Radiation therapy: High-energy rays are used to kill cancer cells, and this treatment can be external (from a machine outside the body) or internal (using radioactive substances placed inside the body near the cancer).
- Chemotherapy: Drugs are used to kill cancer cells or inhibit their growth. These drugs circulate throughout the body and can affect both cancerous and healthy cells, which can cause side effects.
- Targeted therapy: This type of treatment uses drugs or other substances to identify and attack specific types of cancer cells with less harm to normal cells.
- Immunotherapy: This treatment uses the body's own immune system to help fight cancer. It works by either helping the immune system recognize the cancer cells or by directing the immune system to attack the cancer cells.
- Supportive care: This includes treatments to manage the side effects of cancer and its treatment, such as pain, nausea, and fatigue. The treatment plan for lung cancer depends on various factors, including the stage and type of cancer, the patient's overall health, and personal preferences. A healthcare professional can help determine the most appropriate treatment for an individual case.
Preparing for medical consultation
To prepare for an appointment for lung cancer, you should:
- Be aware of any pre-appointment restrictions, such as dietary limitations, and inquire about them when scheduling the appointment.
- Write down any symptoms you're experiencing, including those that may seem unrelated to lung cancer, and note when they began.
- Record key personal information, including major stresses or recent life changes.
- Make a list of all medications, vitamins, or supplements you're taking.
- Gather your medical records, including previous chest X-rays or scans, and any other relevant documents.
- Consider bringing a family member or friend for support, as they can help remember information discussed during the appointment.
- Prepare a list of questions to ask your doctor during the appointment, prioritizing the most important ones. Some questions to ask include the type of lung cancer, the cause of symptoms, the stage of the cancer, and if additional tests are needed. Remember to arrive on time for the appointment, and dress comfortably so you can focus on the conversation with your doctor. Good preparation will help you make the most of your time together and ensure that you cover all the necessary topics.