November is the month of lung cancer awareness and it is for sure one of the deadliest and prevalent forms of cancer. This month, we drive all our efforts towards raising awareness about this disease. By talking about early diagnosis, causes, risk factors and continuing to tackle the deadly burden of tobacco, we can make a difference. So, let’s delve into this and get to know all the necessary aspects that you need to know about this disease.
Causes of Lung Cancer
The most common reasons for developing lung cancer can be one of the followings:
- Smoking
- Inhalation of gases including odorless radon gas and air dirt (asbestos etc)
- Genetic history of cancer or diseases like COPD, emphysema, asthma, etc
- Lack of physical activities
- Alarmingly high levels of arsenic in water
Signs and Symptoms
Rush to a chest specialist if you feel a couple or more of the following signs:
- Pain in the chest
- Tightening and wheezing
- Unusual weight loss
- Bloody cough or colorless/green liquid sputum
- Shortness of breath including fatigue
Get it checked
You can get your signs and symptoms checked by getting different lab tests done including chest X-ray, CT scans and biopsy.
Prevention
Always remember, prevention is better than cure.
- Quit smoking!
- Exposure to asbestos and inhalation of small fumes like that of talcum powder can lead to an increased risk of lung cancer in patients, who don’t have any previous family history of cancer.
Indulge yourself in regular physical exercises and try to keep your routine healthy and active.
