All You Need To Know About Lung Cancer
Table of Contents
Lung Cancer is one of the most common type of cancer that is killing scores of people in India. It is a type of cancer that begins in the lungs and spreads to others parts of the body through the lymphatic system. Studies suggest that people who are chronic smokers or people who are exposed to smoke and other dangerous chemicals have a higher risk of acquiring lung cancer than average individuals. Although, individuals who have no exposure to smoke can also get lung cancer.
The risk of lung cancer increases with the sustained time period of exposure. However, you can significantly reduce the chances of lung cancer, if you quit smoking and restrict your exposure to harmful chemicals. Let us read further to learn about the symptoms and the causes of lung cancer.
The symptoms of lung cancer are as follows:
A new cough that does not stop: A cough that occurs due to an infection or flu does not persist for more than two weeks. Be alert when you coughing period goes on for more than 3 weeks even if it is dry cough or produces mucus.
A cough that accompanies blood: Chronic cough sometimes causes blood splatter in our mucus which is due to increased pressure and rupture of epithelial lining in our throat. This type of blood splatter is light red in color and it is usually not a threat. However, if your cough is accompanied by blood that is either clotted or is a darker shade of red then it is a cause of worry.
Shortness of breath: An individual is known to encounter shallow breaths or shortness of breath when he exerts himself, but individuals with lung cancer will experience shortness of breath even at rest state.
Hoarseness of Voice: Individuals suffering from a mass in the lungs see significant change in their voice timber, the hoarseness of their voice increases and they seem to be loud.
Marked reduction in Weight: Individuals suffering from any form of cancer undergo drastic weight loss, increased fatigue and restlessness.
Increased perception of pains and aches: Since the individual has an increased sense of irritability, he also perceives pain more intensely. This paves way for increase in pains and aches.
The causes of lung cancer are as follows:
Smoking: It is a well known fact that smoking is the primary causative factor of lung cancer. The risk of lung cancer increases with the number of cigarettes an individual smokes and the number of years he smokes. The risk reduces significantly with the cessation of smoking.
Exposure to secondhand smoking: Although smoking causes cancer, study has suggested that passive smoking(inhaling smoke when hanging out with a smoker) also causes lung cancer. The intensity of cancer directly depends on the rate of exposure.
Exposure to harmful gases: Exposure to harmful gases like radon, cigarette smoke, pollution, etc is known to cause lung cancer. It is advised to be alert of the signs and symptoms and take necessary precaution by getting your home and surrounding tested for radon gas emission.
Exposure to Asbestos and Silicon particles: Lung cancer is one of the most common occupational hazards in people who come in contact with asbestos and silicon materials at work. It is advised to take immediate occupational safety measurements like masks and suits to reduce the risk of cancer causing agents.
Family History: Any type of cancer has some genetic component attached to it. Studies have suggested that people with family history of lung cancer have increased risk of acquiring the disease.
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