In spite of extensive campaigns in schools, colleges, movie theatres and on social media platforms to raise awareness, lung cancer still sees an annual incidence of 72,510 cases (5.8%) in India says Dr Kaushal Patel, Senior Medical Oncologist, Elite Hematonco Cancer Centre at Surat. It ranks fourth among all cancers, with a concerning second place among males and sixth among females.
Lung Cancer Screening
Though primarily seen in smokers, 10 to 15 percent of lung cancers occur in non-smokers as well.
- People with an age between 50 and 80 years.
- With smoking history of 20 pack-year (one pack a day for 20 years or two packs a day for 10 years) or more.
- Who are currently smoking or have quitted within the past 15 years.
Lung cancers can either be small cell and non-small cell. It may either begin in the lungs of the individual or else can be due to metastases where the cancer cells spread from one organ to another.
- Non-small cell lung cancer (80 to 85 % of cases).
- Contrastingly, small cell lung cancer (10 to 15 % of cases) usually presents an aggressive nature and a strong association with smoking.
People who receive an early diagnosis have a 13 times greater chance of surviving for five years. Depending on the patient’s condition, the diagnosis of lung cancer differs. It is based on symptoms, medical & family history, physical examination, diagnostic imaging test results (CT scan, PET scan, X ray, MRI, Ultrasound, Sputum cytology and nuclear tests) adds Dr Kaushal.
Risk factors for Lung Cancer –One of the leading causes of lung cancer is cigarette smoking. Lung cancer is also caused when an individual is exposed to harmful substances like asbestos for a longer duration of time. Exposure to harmful chemicals at home and at work also makes an individual prone to lung cancer.
Early Signs
A persistent cough or a chronic cough, shortness of breath, constant chest pain, unintentional weight loss, hoarse voice, persistent fatigue, coughing up blood can be symptoms of lung cancer.
Diagnosis and Staging
Flexible bronchoscopy and transthoracic sampling are the most often used techniques for the diagnosis of lung cancer. More recently, PET-guided biopsy has emerged as a promising technique for transthoracic sampling.
Prevention
- Don’t smoke
- Avoid exposure to indoor pollutants that can damage the lungs, such as second-hand smoke, chemicals, and radon.
- Minimize exposure to outdoor air pollution and occupational risks.
- Prevention from a cold or other respiratory infections.
In combating this multifaceted disease, a range of treatment options are available like surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy.
Early detection and timely treatment can significantly impact the outcome and improve the chances of successful management of lung cancer.
