Cancer that starts in the lungs is known as lung cancer. The maximum number of cancer-related deaths among men and women in the country are caused by lung cancer. While there are various causes for this disease, smoking and passive smoking are one of the major reasons for an individual developing it.
Symptoms of lung cancer
The symptoms of lung cancer start surfacing at an advanced stage of the disease. The signs can include incessant and prolonged coughing, pain in the chest, shortness of breath, hoarse voice, headaches, unexplainable weight loss, pain in the bones, and presence of blood while coughing.
Types Of lung cancer
- Small cell lung cancer
Small cell lung cancer is not as common as non-small cell lung cancer, and it mostly occurs among those who smoke heavily. - Non-small cell lung cancer
The various kinds of lung cancers that are similar in their behavior and symptoms are clubbed under the term non-small cell lung cancer. Squamous cell carcinoma, large cell carcinoma, and adenocarcinoma are some of the types of non-small lung cancer.
Prevention of lung cancer
- Not smoking/Quit smoking
While this step does not guarantee not developing cancer, it more than halves the risk of the disease. Children should be taught about the dangers of smoking so that they do not take up this habit. Proper support and therapy can make people aware of the perils of smoking and discourage them from indulging in it.
People who do smoke should quit the habit. Doctors can recommend ways to quit smoking and suggest aids that can help the process. There are support groups, medications, and nicotine replacements that can assist those trying to quit smoking. - Stay away from secondhand smoke
If one shares space with those who smoke, it is advisable to request them to smoke elsewhere. One can try to stick to places that discourage smoking or stay firmly in the no-smoking zone of restaurants, pubs, etc. - Check for radon in homes
It is essential to have homes checked for radon levels, especially when living in areas that are known for radon-related issues. Solutions to treat dangerous levels of radon are available for living spaces.
The local department of public health or a local chapter of the American Lung Association can provide information related to radon testing. - Reduce exposure to carcinogens while working
Follow the required precautions to avoid being exposed to toxic chemicals at work. Consult a doctor for safety measures that can be adopted to reduce carcinogenic exposure while working. - Consume a nutrient-rich diet
One must eat a well-balanced diet that consists of several fruits and vegetables and supplement their nutrient intake with vitamin pills in case just food is not enough.
It is important to check with doctors before taking any pill as some researchers have discovered that beta carotene supplements given to heavy smokers led to an increased risk of cancer, instead of reducing the risk as intended. - Exercise
Regular exercise is a must. If one is just beginning to exercise, they must begin slowly and increase the frequency and intensity gradually so as to not strain the muscles.
