Lung cancer?
Lung cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the lungs, two spongy organs of the chest that are responsible for absorbing oxygen and releasing carbon dioxide. It is one of the most common and severe types of cancer, both in terms of prevalence and mortality. Types of lung cancer Lung cancer is largely classified into two main types, depending on the shape of the cancer cells observed under the microscope.
1. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC): The most common type accounts for about 85% of all cases. NSCLC can be further classified into several subtypes, including: -adenocarcinoma: It often begins in the outer part of the lungs and is the most common form in nonsmokers.
-Squamous cell carcinoma: usually begins in the central part of the lung and is more frequently associated with smoking.
-Large cell carcinoma: It can occur in any part of the lung and tends to grow and spread rapidly.
2. Small cell lung cancer (SCLC): This type accounts for about 15% of lung cancers and is more aggressive, growing, and spreading more rapidly than NSCLC. It is closely related to smoking.
Cause of lung cancer...?
Lung cancer is caused by genetic mutations in lung cells that lead to uncontrolled cell growth and tumor formation. These mutations can be caused by a variety of factors, including environmental and genetic factors. The main causes are as follows.
1. Smoking
Tobacco Smoking: The leading cause of lung cancer accounts for about 85% of all cases. Tobacco smoke contains carcinogens that damage the DNA of lung cells, such as benzene, formaldehyde, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.
cigar and pipe smoking: not as much as cigarette smoking, but also increases lung cancer risk.
Second-hand smoke: Non-smokers exposed to second-hand smoke are also dangerous. Second-hand smoke contains many of the same carcinogens as direct smoke.
2. radon exposure
Radon: A radioactive gas formed by the natural decay of uranium in soil and rock. It can accumulate in homes, especially in cellars and lower floors. Long-term exposure to high levels of radon can damage lung cells and lead to lung cancer.
3. asbestos exposure
Asbestos: a group of minerals used in construction and manufacturing. Inhaling asbestos fibers can cause lung damage and increase the risk of mesothelioma, a cancer of lung cancer and the lining of the lungs.
4. air pollution
Outdoor air pollution: Long-term exposure to polluted air, particularly fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and vehicle exhaust, industrial exhaust and other pollutants from other sources, can increase lung cancer risk.
Indoor Air Pollution: Exposure to pollutants generated by burning wood, charcoal, feces, or other fuels for cooking and heating in homes with poor ventilation.
5. occupational exposure
Carcinogens in the workplace: exposure to certain chemicals and substances in the workplace can increase lung cancer risk. Examples include arsenic, diesel exhaust, some forms of silica, chromium and nickel.
6. genetic factors
Family history: A family history of lung cancer may increase an individual's risk, suggesting a genetic predisposition. Certain genetic mutations, such as the EGFR gene, may be inherited or acquired.
7. conventional radiotherapy
Radiotherapy: Individuals who have undergone chest radiotherapy due to other cancers are at high risk of developing lung cancer later on.
8. a chronic lung disease
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): Diseases such as COPD, emphysema, and pulmonary fibrosis can increase lung cancer risk due to chronic inflammation and lung injury.
9. Diet and Nutrition
Diet: Some studies have shown that diets low in fruits and vegetables may increase lung cancer risk, while antioxidants in fruits and vegetables may help prevent lung cancer.
Early symptoms of lung cancer...?
Early symptoms of lung cancer are subtle and can be easily mistaken for other less severe conditions. However, early recognition of these symptoms can have a major impact on treatment success. Common early symptoms of lung cancer are as follows.
1. Persistent Cough Chronic Cough: A cough that does not disappear or worsen over time. New Cough: A new and persistent cough that occurs in a smoker or a former smoker.
2. Changes in Chronic Coughs More frequent coughs: increase in cough frequency. Different sounds: coughs that sound different or of different quality.
3. Bloody cough Hemoptysis: occurs when coughing up a small amount of blood or mucus mixed with blood.
4. Difficulty breathing Difficulty breathing: Difficulty breathing or tension easily during normal activities.
5. Chest pain Persistent chest pain: constant, pain that can worsen when breathing deep, coughing, or laughing.
6. Stiff voice voice change: Stiff voice or voice change that lasts for more than two weeks.
7. Inexplicable Weight Loss Involuntary weight loss: losing weight without effort. This is often caused by the body's increased energy consumption to fight cancer.
8. Anorexia Anorexia: Significant loss of appetite leads to weight loss.
9. Fatigue Persistent fatigue: Resting doesn't ease and feels unusually tired or weak.
10. Recurring Infection Frequent respiratory infections: bronchitis or pneumonia occurs repeatedly.
When these symptoms appear, it is important to seek medical attention, especially if they persist and worsen. Early detection of lung cancer can increase the likelihood of successful treatment. Even if these symptoms are not caused by lung cancer, they can indicate other health problems that require attention.
