Lung Cancer: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention

​Get to Know Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is the third most common type of cancer and the number one cause of cancer-related deaths. Lung cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the lungs grow uncontrollably and form tumours that can spread to other parts of the body. Let's look at why this cancer is so dangerous and how you can lower your risk.

What Causes Lung Cancer?

A person's risk of developing this cancer can be increased by a number of causes and risk factors as follows:

Causes of Lung Cancer

      1.  Smoking

Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer. Cigarettes contain more than 70 carcinogenic chemicals. As a result, people who smoke have a higher risk of developing lung cancer than people who do not smoke.

      2.  Exposure to Second-Hand Smoke

People who are regularly exposed to secondhand smoke, whether at home or at work, are more likely to develop lung cancer.

      3.  Air Pollution

Toxic gases and dust in the air can also cause lung cancer. Individuals who live in polluted areas or work in the industrial sector are at a high risk of developing lung cancer.

      4.  Radon

Radon is a radioactive gas that occurs naturally in soil and rock. Prolonged radon exposure can also increase the risk of developing lung cancer.

Risk Factors of Lung Cancer

      1.  Age

The likelihood of developing lung cancer rises with age. The majority of lung cancer cases occur in people aged 65 and up.

      2.  Genetics

According to research, genetic factors may influence a person's risk of developing lung cancer. Individuals with a history of lung cancer are more likely to get affected by this disease.

      3.  Chronic Lung Disease

Individuals with chronic lung diseases such as chronic bronchitis or emphysema are more likely to develop lung cancer.

       4.  Inactivity

Studies show that individuals who are less active have a higher risk of developing lung cancer.

      5.  Unbalanced Diet

Consuming a diet rich in fats and low in nutrients can raise a person's likelihood of getting lung cancer.

Symptoms of Lung Cancer

Lung cancer symptoms indicate the presence of a tumour in the lungs. The majority of these symptoms appear in the later stages of the disease, but some appear in the early stages as well. Here are some of the most common lung cancer symptoms:

• Chronic cough: A cough that lasts for 2 weeks or more, especially one that worsens or is bloody, can be a sign of lung cancer.

• Shortness of breath: Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing can also be an early symptom of lung cancer. It occurs during strenuous activity, such as climbing stairs.

• Chest pain: This cancer can also be characterised by persistent chest pain, particularly in the chest area near the lungs.

• Weight loss: Unexplained weight loss can be an indication of lung cancer. Patients may also experience fatigue and a loss of appetite.

• Fever: Lung cancer can raise your body temperature. Fever is an indication of an imbalance in the immune system and should not be ignored.

• Headaches: Severe and persistent headaches can be caused by lung cancer that has spread to the brain.

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Detecting Lung Cancer

Early detection of lung cancer is important to ensure more effective treatment. Here are some methods to detect lung cancer:

      1.  Physical Examination

A doctor may perform a physical examination to look for signs of lung cancer. This includes checking the breathing, heart rate, chest and abdominal area.

      2.  X-Ray

The most common method for detecting lung cancer is with an X-ray. It is a test that produces images of the lungs' internal structure to detect any abnormalities.

      3.  PET Scan

PET scan or Positron Emission Tomography is a scanning method that uses radioactive material to detect tumours and cancer cells that may have spread to other parts of the body.

      4.  CT Scan

CT scan or Computerised Tomography Scan is a more advanced method than X-ray. It creates three-dimensional images of the internal structure using computer technology.

      5.  Biopsy

Biopsy is a technique of obtaining a tissue sample from the lungs in order to detect any cancer cells. Fine-needle aspiration biopsy, bronchoscopy biopsy and mediastinoscopy biopsy are all methods of biopsy.

      6.  Lung Function Test

Lung function tests are completed to assess the health and function of the lungs. It can help the doctor in determining the extent of lung cancer damage.

      7.  Blood Test

A blood test can reveal information about a person's health. Blood tests like CA-125, CEA and SCCA can help detect lung cancer.

Treating Lung Cancer

Treating lung cancer is a complex process involving various treatments and lifestyle changes. Here are some lung cancer treatments available in Malaysia:

      1.  Surgery

Surgery is usually performed to remove the tumour and tissue around the affected lung. Surgery is the first choice if the tumour has not spread to other parts of the body.

       2.  Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy kills cancer cells by using X-rays and gamma rays.

This therapy can be used alone or in conjunction with surgery and chemotherapy.

      3.  Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is the use of drugs to destroy cancer cells. It is usually used in combination with surgery or radiation therapy. Carboplatin, Gemcitabine and Cisplatin are examples of chemotherapeutic drugs.

      4.  Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy is a treatment that involves drugs designed to block the action of cancer cells. This therapy is also useful in reducing the side effects of chemotherapy. Examples of targeted therapy drugs are Crizotinib, Ceritinib and Alectinib.

      5.  Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy is a treatment that involves the use of drugs to stimulate the patient's immune system to fight cancer cells. This treatment is used in conjunction with other methods of treatment. Crizotinib, Ceritinib and Alectinib are examples of targeted therapy drugs.

Tips for Maintaining Healthy Lungs

      1.  Quit Smoking!

Quitting smoking is the most effective preventative measure for lung cancer. Reduce your smoking frequency or switch to doctor-recommended alternatives to address your addiction.

      2.  Reduce Exposure to Second-Hand Smoke

If you don't smoke, make sure to avoid second-hand smoke or areas with second-hand smoke, including public areas. Ensure that the inside of your home is smoke-free and that no one smokes in the area.

      3.  Practise a Healthy Lifestyle

A healthy lifestyle can help lower the risk of getting lung cancer. Keep active by exercising and avoid dangerous drugs such as heroin and cocaine, which can harm your lungs.

      4.  Take Safety Measures at Work

If you are exposed to hazardous chemicals at work, take appropriate safety precautions such as wearing respiratory protection or requesting that your employer provide a better and safe working environment.

      5.  Maintain a Healthy Diet

Foods rich in antioxidants such as fruits and vegetables can help protect your lungs from cell damage and reduce the risk of lung cancer.

You can also try to maintain lung health and fight disease with foods high in nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene and selenium.

      6.  Self-Care Therapy

Self-care therapy such as yoga and meditation can help reduce stress and improve the body's ability to fight disease. These treatments may help lower the risk of lung cancer.

Don't Lose Hope!

In conclusion, lung cancer patients don't have to lose hope. Many changes in the field of medicine are leading to positive outcomes. Having access to quality healthcare can help improve recovery and quality of life. Keep fighting and don't give up!