Lung cancer is often referred to as the silent killer because the symptoms can go unnoticed or mistaken for something else until it is too late. This devastating disease is known to leave half of its victims dead within a year of diagnosis, but usually just because the diagnosis is made too late. This insidious nature of the disease makes it crucial for individuals to be aware of the symptoms and risk factors associated with lung cancer to detect and treat it early.
What is Lung Cancer?
Lung cancer is a type of cancer that originates in the tissues of the lung, primarily affecting the cells that line the air passages. It is currently known to be the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in both men and women. There are two main types of lung cancer: small-cell lung cancer and non-small-cell lung cancer. These types grow differently and require different treatment approaches, with non-small cell lung cancer being the more common form. (1)
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Common Causes of Lung Cancer
Several factors can increase the risk of developing lung cancer, with smoking being the most significant risk factor. Tobacco smoking is responsible for about 9 out of 10 cases of lung cancer in men and about 8 out of 10 cases in women. Other risk factors include exposure to secondhand smoke, a family history of lung cancer, exposure to hazardous substances in the workplace, radiation exposure, and air pollution. According to the National Cancer Institute, 235,000 new cases of lung cancer are diagnosed in the U.S. every year. (2)
Symptoms of Lung Cancer
As already mentioned, the symptoms of lung cancer can be difficult to spot. One of the biggest problems is that they can be easily blown off for something else, even by your doctors. You may put off going to see the doctor because “it’s just a cough”. When you go to see your doctor, it may first be believed that you have some other kind of infection. By the time lung cancer becomes a suspect, it can be too late. Understanding the symptoms of lung cancer can help you to be your own advocate, so that you can get diagnoses early while the cancer is still treatable. The following are the most common, but often missed, signs of lung cancer:
1. Persistent Cough
Individuals with lung cancer may experience a persistent cough that worsens over time. This cough can be dry or produce mucus, leading to discomfort and difficulty in breathing.
2. Coughing Up Blood
Hemoptysis, or coughing up blood, is a common symptom of lung cancer. It occurs when the cancerous cells invade the blood vessels in the lungs, causing bleeding that can be visible in the sputum.
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3. Chest Pain
Lung cancer can cause chest pain that worsens with deep breathing, coughing, or laughing. This pain can be sharp or dull and may be localized or radiate to the back or shoulders.
4. Hoarseness, Breathlessness, and Wheezing
Other symptoms of lung cancer include hoarseness of voice, shortness of breath, and the sudden onset of wheezing. These symptoms often indicate obstruction or inflammation of the airways due to the growth of tumors.
5. Persistent Infections
Lung cancer can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to persistent infections such as bronchitis or pneumonia. These recurrent infections can be a sign of an underlying lung condition.
Other symptoms of lung cancer include loss of appetite, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue, which can significantly impact the quality of life of affected individuals.
Talking to Your Doctor and Getting Diagnosed
If you experience any of these symptoms or have risk factors for lung cancer, it is essential to seek medical advice promptly. Your healthcare provider will take your medical history, perform a physical examination, and may order imaging tests and lab tests to diagnose lung cancer accurately. Further diagnostic procedures, such as biopsies and genetic testing, may be conducted to determine the type and stage of the cancer, guiding the treatment plan.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, lung cancer poses a significant health threat due to its silent progression and high mortality rate. Understanding the symptoms and risk factors associated with lung cancer can aid in early detection and prompt intervention, improving treatment outcomes and survival rates. It is crucial to prioritize lung health by adopting a healthy lifestyle, avoiding tobacco use, and seeking medical assistance for any concerning symptoms. By raising awareness and advocating for early screening and diagnosis, we can combat the silent killer that is lung cancer and strive for improved outcomes for those affected by this disease.
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Sources
- “Lung Cancer.” Medline Plus
- “Understanding Lung Cancer.” OHSU