Lung cancer

Like other cancers, the symptoms of lung cancer become more evident in the later stages of the disease than in earlier stages. Patients usually notice these symptoms when the disease advances to the higher stages. A few symptoms seen in lung cancer include the following:

• A persistent cough that doesn't go away
• Spotting blood in cough
• Hoarseness
• Losing weight for no evident reason
• Headache
• Bone pain
• Trouble in breathing
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Persistent or recurrent chest infection
• Trouble during swallowing
• Wheezing
• Loss of appetite
• Tiredness
• Swelling of the face and veins
• Finger clubbing (thickening and rounding of the fingertips)
• Swelling of lymph nodes around and above the collarbone
• Thrombocytosis (excessive production of platelets)

Here are some common signs and symptoms that could be suggestive of cancer.

Smoking is the primary cause of lung cancer, including first-hand smoking and long-term exposure to second-hand smoke.

Smoking damages the lung lining with carcinogens in cigarette smoke, leading to cancer over time.

While the body initially repairs the damage, repeated exposure causes permanent harm, leading to cancer development.

Other factors that can increase the likelihood of lung cancer are discussed in the next segment.

Here’s more on how smoking can affect your lungs. Read Now

A risk factor is anything that increases a person’s chance of getting a disease. Risk factors for lung cancer can be classified into the following:

1. Modifiable Risk Factors

• Exposure to radon gas
• Exposure to asbestos
• Occupational exposure to inhaled chemicals such as arsenic, beryllium, cadmium, silica, and diesel exhaust
• Diet low in antioxidants, such as vitamins A, C, and E, linked to lung cancer risk

2. Non-Modifiable Risk Factors

• Family history
• Previous history of lung diseases, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and tuberculosis
• Gender (Smoking prevalence is higher among men than women, which is the leading cause of lung cancer)
• Air pollution

If your doctor suspects lung cancer, they will advise a series of tests to confirm the diagnosis.

1. Imaging Tests

• X-ray: Helps identify abnormal masses or nodules in the lungs that may suggest the presence of cancer.
• High-Resolution Computed Tomography (HRCT) Scan: Provides detailed cross-sectional images of the lungs, helping detect small tumors or assess the extent of lung cancer.
• MRI: Offers detailed images of soft tissues, useful for evaluating the spread of cancer to the brain or spinal cord.
• PET Scan: Identifies highly active cancer cells in the body by detecting areas with increased glucose metabolism, shown as "hot spots."

2. Tissue Samples

• Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy (FNAC): Helps extract tissue or fluid from suspicious areas for microscopic examination to confirm the presence of cancer cells.
• Bronchoscopy: Enables direct visualization of airways and collection of tissue samples from lesions for further analysis.
• Thoracoscopy: Provides access to less accessible lung areas, allowing for the removal of tissue samples for an accurate diagnosis.

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There is no certain way through which one can prevent lung cancer. However, there are certain steps that a person can take to reduce their risk of getting lung cancer.

• Stop smoking: Quitting smoking at any stage significantly lowers the risk of lung cancer.
• Stay away from secondhand smoke: Minimize exposure to secondhand smoke by encouraging others to smoke outdoors and avoiding confined areas with smokers.
• Test your home for radon: Ensure safe radon levels at home by contacting local authorities for testing and remediation.
• Avoid carcinogens: Follow safety protocols to limit exposure to harmful substances like asbestos and toxic chemicals at work.
• Eat a healthy diet: Consume a nutrient-rich diet with fruits and vegetables while consulting a doctor about supplements.
• Try chemoprevention: Consider preventive treatments that inhibit or reverse the development of cancer. Research and tests on molecular changes can guide cancer prevention strategies.
• Lower workplace risks: Take precautions to avoid harmful chemicals at work that can increase lung cancer risk.
• Exercise regularly: Engage in physical activity, like walking for 30 minutes daily, to improve overall health and reduce cancer risk.

Cancer treatment is based on its stage and extent, determined through tests like PET scans, CT, and MRI, with options tailored to your health and specific needs. Treatment options include:

• Surgery
  • Wedge resection: A small section of the lung is removed to resect the cancer cells along with a margin of healthy tissue.
  • Segmental resection: A larger area of the lung is removed, whereas a lobectomy involves removing the entire affected lobe of the lung.
  • Pneumonectomy: This procedure involves the removal of an entire lung.

  Note: In the advanced stages of cancer, the lymph nodes may also be affected. In such cases, the surgeon may remove some lymph nodes to check for signs of cancer spread.

• Radiation therapy

  This treatment modality uses high-powered energy beams that effectively kill cancer cells. During a radiation therapy appointment, the patient lies flat on a table while a large machine emits the energy beam, moving around the body to aim at precise points. Radiation therapy is often recommended for patients with localized lung cancer and may also be advised after surgery to remove the affected tissue.

• Chemotherapy

  Chemotherapy uses strong medicines to kill cancer cells. These drugs circulate the body to destroy cancer cells that may have spread from the original tumor. Patients receive a combination of medications over weeks or months, administered via a vein or orally. Chemotherapy also helps reduce the size of tumors, making it easier for surgeons to remove the mass completely.

• Stereotactic body radiotherapy

  This intense form of radiation treatment subjects cancer to several beams of radiation from different angles and can also be used to treat cancer that has spread to other parts of the body.

• Targeted drug therapy

  Targeted drug therapy is often considered for individuals with recurrent or advanced cancer. These drugs block abnormalities, causing cancer cells to die. Before undergoing targeted therapy, tumor cells may be sent for laboratory testing to determine the appropriate drug.

• Immunotherapy

  Immunotherapy utilizes the body’s immune system to fight cancer. Cancer cells can produce proteins to evade detection by the immune system, making it difficult for the body to attack them. Immunotherapy helps the immune system recognize and destroy these cancer cells and is often used for advanced or metastatic lung cancers.

Certain herbal remedies may offer support in managing lung cancer, but it's essential to consult your doctor before trying anything new to ensure they don't interfere with your treatment plan. Some natural remedies that have shown potential benefits include:

• Pomegranate (Anar): Helps stop tumor growth and blood vessel formation in cancer by reducing harmful signals and markers.
• Turmeric root (Haldi ki Jad): Slows tumor growth and blocks blood supply to cancer by targeting specific proteins.
• Green Tea: Lowers blood vessel formation in lung cancer by reducing specific markers.

Lung cancer can lead to various complications due to its spread or as a side effect of treatments. These include:

• Superior vena cava syndrome: Tumors in the upper right lung can block blood flow, causing dizziness, facial swelling, and fainting.
• Metastasis: Cancer can spread to organs like the brain, bones, or adrenal glands, commonly in advanced stages.
• Lung infections: Reduced immunity from cancer or its treatment increases the risk of infections like bronchitis or pneumonia.
• Heart blockage: Cancer spreading to the heart can compress veins and arteries, causing fluid buildup, arrhythmias, or heart attacks.
• Hypercalcemia: High calcium levels in the blood can cause vomiting, excessive thirst, and stomach pain.
• Blood clots: Lung cancer raises the risk of clots, potentially causing fatal pulmonary embolism if they travel to the lungs.
• Neuropathy: Tumors in the lung's apex may cause arm and shoulder pain or Horner's syndrome with droopy eyelids and pupil changes.
• Spinal cord compression: Cancer spreading to the spine can cause back pain, weakness, and vertebrae compression, affecting 28% of lung cancer patients.

Lung cancer requires conventional medical treatment. However, some patients feel that a complementary approach via alternative therapies can help in the management of the side effects caused during the treatment. These consist of:

• Acupuncture
  Acupuncture involves the insertion of needles through the skin at specific points on the body. It can provide relief for patients and ease symptoms such as nausea and vomiting, which are common side effects of cancer treatments.
• Aromatherapy
  Aromatherapy uses a mix of essential oils for massages that can promote relaxation. Many patients find that alternative therapies such as aromatherapy help them cope with cancer treatment and enhance their sense of well-being.
• Hypnosis
  Hypnosis is conducted by a therapist who guides patients through relaxation exercises that encourage positive and calming thoughts. It can also help reduce nausea and anxiety experienced by individuals with cancer.
• Meditation
  Meditation can help center your thoughts and promote feelings of calmness and acceptance. It is said to improve the quality of life and enhance a person's mental state. Practicing meditation for just 10-15 minutes a day can significantly aid in disease management and overall well-being.

Cancer affects your day-to-day life and also impacts the following months of your life. Here are a few things to keep in mind.

1. Take care of yourself

Preparing for lung cancer treatment can feel overwhelming, but focusing on self-care can help.

Maintain a healthy, balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables. Ensure you get restful sleep and practice stress-reducing activities like meditation.

Consult your doctor for personalized strategies to help your body prepare for the treatment effectively.

2. Conserve your energy

Fatigue is common during cancer treatment.

Prioritize essential tasks and seek support from family members to manage daily activities.

3. Cope with emotions

Living with lung cancer can bring up various emotions.

To maintain emotional health during your journey, talk to your friends and family, and connect with others in similar situations.

4. Get help from support groups

There are many active support groups for patients and family caregivers, so no one has to face a lung cancer diagnosis alone.