Lung Cancer Awareness Month

Hope is like air to the lungs; never give up breathing

November is a month of transition, where autumn leaves give way to the subtle embrace of winter. In this special month, we remember to celebrate and spread the importance of lung cancer awareness to our loved ones. Let's join and learn more about lung cancer and the importance of its awareness in this blog.

 Significance Of Lung Cancer Awareness

Lung cancer is a most significant health concern worldwide due to its high prevalence, lack of symptoms (beginning), and poor prognosis. According to the world cancer research fund international (WCFRI), lung cancer is the 2nd most common cancer globally. It is the most commonly affecting cancer in men and the 2nd most commonly affecting cancer in women. More than 2.2 million new lung cancer cases were reported in the year 2020. According to GLOBOCAN (global cancer observatory: cancer today), it is estimated that the incidence of lung cancer in India in 2012 was about 70,275 in all ages and sexes. So, we need to understand the urge to protect our loved ones from this deadly disease.

History

Since 1995, every year, November has been dedicated as national lung cancer awareness month to raise awareness among people about the importance of early diagnosis and prevention measures for lung cancer globally. Spreading awareness is the only way to educate people about the risk of lung cancer, which affects millions of people.

 Let's Know About Lung Cancer

Lung cancer or bronchogenic carcinoma is a type of cancer that affects your lungs. It can be classified into two common types: small and non-small cell lung cancer. People who have the habit of smoking are at higher risk of getting lung cancer compared to non-smokers (passive smokers), but they are also affected by this deadly disease.

 Symptoms Of Lung Cancer 

• Persistent coughing
• Pain in chest
• Breathing trouble
• Wheezing
• Blood vomiting
• Feeling not well or exhausted
• Sudden weight loss

 5 Common Causes Of Lung Cancer

1. Smoking: Lung cancer is often linked to smoking which involves inducing cancer cells and inflammation of the lungs. Second-hand smokers (passive smokers) are also at risk of getting lung cancer even though they don't have the habit of smoking.

2. Occupational and Environmental Causes: Long-time exposure to carcinogenic substances in the environment (carbon emission by air pollution) and working places like mining welding (arsenic, radon, benzene, vinyl chloride, silica dust) can cause lung cancer.

3. Family History: If you have a family history of lung cancer, you're more likely to be affected by it, even-though you are a non-smoker.

4. Alcohol consumption: If you consume higher levels of alcohol, you may have an increased risk of getting lung cancer.

5. Viruses: viruses like influenza virus may increase (1.09-fold) the risk of lung cancer in the individuals who are affected by it.

 Ways to Prevent Lung Cancer

• Quit the smoke, and don't let your friends or family to smoke
• Limit or quit your alcohol consumption
• Safeguard yourself from environmental and occupational pollutants
• Wear proper PPE (personal protective equipment) like mask
• Eat a proper diet (fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains)
• Get a vaccine against viruses
• Do regular exercise or simple walking

Advanced treatment for lung cancer

Advanced treatment for lung cancer has evolved in recent years, in which immunotherapies and targeted therapies continue to show benefits as research evolves. These advancements have given new hope to patients in advanced lung cancer stages by improving the treatment outcomes and overall survival rates of the patient. Early or advanced stages of lung cancer can be treated by chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Your healthcare provider will decide the suitable treatment based on your health and stage of cancer.

FAQ:

Can I Drink water if I have lung cancer?

Yes, Drinking water is always good for your health and keeps you hydrated. But make sure that your drinking water is arsenic-free. It may raise the risk of lung cancer.

 How can I find out that I have lung cancer?

Inform your doctor if you have persistent coughing (which worsens daily), chest pain, breathing trouble, wheezing, blood vomiting, feeling unwell or exhausted, and sudden weight loss. Your doctor will further examine you by diagnostic procedure to confirm the lung cancer.

Is it possible to develop lung cancer if you are a non-smoker?

Yes. Even though you don't have the habit of smoking. You may get lung cancer if you are a secondhand smoker (passive smoker).

Can I feel okay with lung cancer?

You may not feel the symptoms in the beginning phase of lung cancer. Later, you may have coughing, wheezing, and chest pain (early signs). So, it is advised to seek your doctor's help if you feel you are not okay or speak with your doctor about any discomfort you feel. Being frank with the doctor is the best way to overcome it.

Let's fight against lung cancer

This November, we pledge to spread awareness among everyone and defeat lung cancer, which is the main reason for the death of many people. I hope everyone who reads this blog will get an idea about the prevention of our lungs from the risk factor of lung cancer and the importance of spreading awareness among the people. Let's unite together against lung cancer and prevent our beloved ones.

Life should take your breath away, not lung cancer!