Lung Cancer

Description:

Lung cancer begins in the lungs and may spread to other parts of the body. It is primarily caused by smoking but can also occur in non-smokers due to factors like secondhand smoke, radon exposure, and environmental pollutants.

Symptoms:

Persistent cough, coughing up blood, chest pain, shortness of breath, wheezing, hoarseness, recurring respiratory infections, fatigue, unexplained weight loss.

Risk Factors:

Smoking (cigarettes, cigars, pipes), secondhand smoke, exposure to radon gas, asbestos, diesel exhaust, air pollution, family history of lung cancer, personal history of lung diseases (COPD, tuberculosis).

Prevention:

Avoiding tobacco smoke (smoking cessation programs), minimizing exposure to environmental carcinogens (radon, asbestos), improving indoor and outdoor air quality, maintaining a healthy lifestyle (healthy diet, regular exercise).

Treatment Options:

Surgery (lobectomy, pneumonectomy), chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, clinical trials.

Support Resources:

Lung cancer support groups, smoking cessation programs (e.g., Quitline), pulmonary rehabilitation programs, online communities (e.g., Inspire), financial assistance programs.