Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. It is a disease in which abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the lungs. Early detection and treatment of lung cancer can improve survival chances.

However, signs and symptoms of lung cancer may not be noticeable until the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.

Types of Lung Cancer

There are two main types of lung cancer:.

Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Non-small cell lung cancer is the most common type of lung cancer. It accounts for about 85% of all lung cancers. This type of cancer usually grows and spreads more slowly than small cell lung cancer.

There are three main subtypes of non-small cell lung cancer:.

Adenocarcinoma – This type of lung cancer develops in the cells that produce mucus in the lungs.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma – This type of lung cancer develops in the cells that line the airway in the lungs.
Large Cell Carcinoma – This type of lung cancer can develop in any part of the lung and tends to grow and spread quickly.

Small Cell Lung Cancer

Small cell lung cancer accounts for about 15% of all lung cancers. This type of cancer is more aggressive and grows and spreads quickly. Small cell lung cancer is often linked to smoking.

Symptoms of Lung Cancer

Lung cancer may not cause any symptoms in its early stages. Symptoms usually appear when the cancer has spread to other parts of the body. The most common symptoms of lung cancer are:.

Coughing up blood or rust-colored sputum
Chest pain that worsens with deep breathing, coughing, or laughing
Hoarseness
Shortness of breath
Wheezing
Loss of appetite
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue
Recurring infections such as bronchitis or pneumonia

When to Seek Medical Help for Your Cough

A cough is a common symptom of many respiratory diseases. Most coughs are caused by viral infections such as the common cold or flu and resolve on their own within a few days to a week.

However, if you have a persistent cough that lasts longer than two weeks or have any of the symptoms listed above, you should seek medical help.

If you are a smoker or have a history of smoking, you should be especially vigilant about any respiratory symptoms such as coughing or shortness of breath. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer and increases your risk of developing the disease.

Even if you have quit smoking, you may still be at risk for lung cancer.

Diagnosis of Lung Cancer

If you have symptoms of lung cancer or your doctor suspects that you may have the disease, they will order tests to diagnose the condition. The most common diagnostic tests for lung cancer include:.

Chest X-Ray – A chest x-ray can show abnormal masses or nodules in the lungs.
Computed Tomography (CT) Scan – A CT scan uses computer technology to create detailed images of the lungs and other organs.
PET scan – A PET scan shows areas of abnormal metabolic activity in the body. This test can help to determine if cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
Bronchoscopy – A bronchoscopy is a procedure in which a flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the airway to examine the lungs and take tissue samples for biopsy.
Biopsy – A biopsy is the removal of a small sample of tissue for laboratory analysis. A biopsy can confirm the presence of cancer and determine the type of cancer.

Treatment of Lung Cancer

Treatment options for lung cancer depend on the type and stage of the cancer, as well as the overall health of the patient. The most common treatments for lung cancer include:.

Surgery – Surgery is the best option for early-stage lung cancer. The goal of surgery is to remove the cancerous tissue from the lungs.
Radiation therapy – Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. This treatment is often used in combination with surgery or chemotherapy to shrink tumors before surgery or destroy remaining cancer cells after surgery.
Chemotherapy – Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. This treatment is often used in combination with radiation therapy or surgery to treat advanced-stage lung cancer.
Targeted therapy – Targeted therapy uses drugs that target specific proteins or genes in cancer cells. This treatment is often used in combination with chemotherapy to treat advanced-stage lung cancer.

Prevention of Lung Cancer

The best way to prevent lung cancer is to avoid smoking and exposure to second-hand smoke. If you are a smoker, quitting smoking can reduce your risk of developing lung cancer.

Additionally, reducing exposure to other environmental toxins and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can also help to lower your risk of lung cancer.

Conclusion

Lung cancer is a serious disease that often goes undetected until it has spread to other parts of the body. If you have a persistent cough or any other symptoms of lung cancer, it is important to seek medical help.

Early detection and treatment can improve the chances of survival. By reducing your exposure to environmental toxins and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, you can also lower your risk of developing lung cancer.