Lung Cancer: Causes, Risk Factors, and Prevention
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide, often attributed to smoking and exposure to certain environmental toxins. This cancer starts in the lungs and can spread to other parts of the body if not detected early. Understanding the causes and risk factors is essential for prevention and early detection.
The primary cause of lung cancer is smoking, responsible for about 85% of cases. Other risk factors include exposure to secondhand smoke, radon gas, asbestos, and other carcinogens. Genetic predisposition can also play a role in the development of lung cancer.
Symptoms of lung cancer may include a persistent cough, coughing up blood, chest pain, shortness of breath, unexplained weight loss, and recurrent respiratory infections. If these symptoms persist, it is important to seek medical attention for appropriate screening and diagnosis.
Preventive measures include quitting smoking, avoiding secondhand smoke, testing for radon at home, and using protective equipment when exposed to hazardous substances. Regular health check-ups and screening, especially for those at high risk, can lead to early detection and more effective treatment options, such as surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.
The primary cause of lung cancer is smoking, responsible for about 85% of cases. Other risk factors include exposure to secondhand smoke, radon gas, asbestos, and other carcinogens. Genetic predisposition can also play a role in the development of lung cancer.
Symptoms of lung cancer may include a persistent cough, coughing up blood, chest pain, shortness of breath, unexplained weight loss, and recurrent respiratory infections. If these symptoms persist, it is important to seek medical attention for appropriate screening and diagnosis.
Preventive measures include quitting smoking, avoiding secondhand smoke, testing for radon at home, and using protective equipment when exposed to hazardous substances. Regular health check-ups and screening, especially for those at high risk, can lead to early detection and more effective treatment options, such as surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.