Lung cancer is the most deadly cause of cancer around the world. It leads to millions of deaths every year and affects many more. November is regarded as the month of lung cancer awareness. Pakistan is also one of the countries which are affected by its wrath. This puts Pakistan at a disadvantage because lack of resources makes it difficult to fight this menace and also millions of rupees are spent trying to cure the patients which are equally challenging for both the patients and the government. We tell you all about lung cancer and how you can save yourself and your loved ones from being affected by it.
What is lung cancer?
Cancer of the lung, like all cancers, results from an abnormality in the body’s basic unit of life, the cell. Normally, the body maintains a system of checks and balances on cell growth so that cells divide to produce new cells only when new cells are needed. Disruption of this system of checks and balances on cell growth results in an uncontrolled division and proliferation of cells that eventually forms a mass known as a tumor.
How to prevent lung cancer?
There are a number of instances and substances which lead to the occurrence of lung cancer. Certain jobs and environments also expose one to these irritants which then act as a catalyst for lung cancer. One such substance is Asbestos fibers. These were previously used in both thermal and acoustic insulation. Restricting their use or exposure is one way to prevent lung cancer. However, another major cause of lung cancer is smoking. Cigarette smoking drastically increases the chance of developing asbestos-related lung cancer in workers exposed to asbestos. Other factors such as living a healthy lifestyle and engaging managing your health are also crucial for preventing lung cancer.
