Lung Mass/Lung Cancer
What is Lung Cancer?
Lung cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the lungs, typically in the cells lining the air passages. It is often caused by smoking or exposure to harmful substances like air pollution or radon. There are two main types: non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC), with NSCLC being more common. Symptoms often don’t appear until the cancer is advanced, making early detection challenging.
Causes of Lung Cancer:
- Cigarette smoking: The leading cause of lung cancer, responsible for the majority of cases
- Secondhand smoke: Exposure to smoke from others' cigarettes
- Air pollution: Long-term exposure to harmful air pollutants
- Radon: A naturally occurring radioactive gas that can accumulate in buildings
- Occupational exposures: Asbestos, arsenic, or other chemicals in certain workplaces
- Genetics: Family history and inherited genetic mutations can increase risk
- Previous lung diseases: Conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or tuberculosis increase the risk
Common Signs and Symptoms:
- Persistent cough that worsens over time
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing
- Coughing up blood or rust-colored sputum
- Unexplained weight loss and fatigue
- Frequent respiratory infections, like pneumonia or bronchitis
Popular Treatment Methods:
- Surgery: Removing part or all of the affected lung if the cancer is localized
- Chemotherapy: Using drugs to kill cancer cells or stop their growth
- Radiation therapy: Targeted radiation to shrink tumors or kill cancer cells
- Targeted therapy: Drugs that target specific genetic mutations or proteins in cancer cells
- Immunotherapy: Medications that stimulate the immune system to attack cancer cells
- Palliative care: To manage symptoms and improve quality of life, especially in advanced stages
Lung cancer is a serious condition, but early detection and advances in treatment offer opportunities for better outcomes and symptom management.