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Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer. It is also responsible for most cancers of the larynx, oral cavity, and oesophagus. However, despite this knowledge, lung cancer rates continue to surge. Why is this happening? And who is most at risk? Read on to find out.
Lung cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the lungs. The lungs are two spongy organs in the chest that take in oxygen and release carbon dioxide. Cancer is a disease caused by mutations, or abnormal changes, in the DNA of cells. Normally, DNA tells cells what to do, how to grow, and when to die. But mutations can cause cells to behave abnormally. Mutations in DNA can be caused by cigarette smoke. Manipal Hospitals is one of the best cancer care hospitals in Delhi and has highly experienced doctors who can guide you over every aspect related to lung cancer. Contact us for a consultation session or lung cancer treatment in Delhi.
If lung cancer is found early, it might be treated with surgery alone. But lung cancer usually grows and spreads too much before it is found. Early signs of lung cancer include a cough that does not go away and shortness of breath. Lung cancer claims more lives each year than colon, breast, and prostate cancers combined. Despite this grim statistic, there is hope for those diagnosed with lung cancer. Over the past few decades, treatment options have improved dramatically, and patients are now living longer with a better quality of life than ever before.
Symptoms of Lung Cancer
The symptoms of lung cancer can vary depending on the individual and the stage of the disease. However, some common symptoms include:
- Coughing
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Chest pain
- Hoarseness
Lung cancer may also cause a person to lose weight, experience coughing up blood, and have difficulty swallowing. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor so that they can rule out other potential causes and determine if you have lung cancer. Early diagnosis is critical for successful treatment, so do not hesitate to seek medical attention if you are experiencing any unusual symptoms.
Stages and Types of Lung Cancer
The most common type of lung cancer is non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), which accounts for about 85% of all cases. The two main types of NSCLC are squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. Treatment for NSCLC typically involves surgery, radiation therapy, and/or chemotherapy. Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is the less common type of lung cancer, accounting for about 15% of all cases. SCLC usually spreads more rapidly than NSCLC and is often difficult to treat. Treatment for SCLC typically involves radiation therapy and/or chemotherapy.
If you have been diagnosed with lung cancer, it is important to talk to your doctor about all of your treatment options. Thanks to advances in medical science, lung cancer is no longer a death sentence the cancer has spread. There are 5 stages of lung cancer: stage 0, stage I, stage II, stage III, and stage IV. Stage IV is the most advanced stage of lung cancer. Lung cancer can also be classified based on the type of cell where it began: non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) or small cell Lung Cancer (SCLC).
Dos and Don't To follow During Lung Cancer Treatment
Lung cancer is a serious diagnosis, but with the right treatment plan, it is possible to manage the disease and maintain a good quality of life. Here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind during treatment:
DOs:
- Stay positive and optimistic
- Follow your treatment plan as prescribed by your doctor
- Eat a healthy diet and get regular exercise
- Join a support group or seek counselling if you’re struggling emotionally
DON’TS:
- Ignore early symptoms or downplay the seriousness of your diagnosis
- Miss doctor’s appointments or fail to take medications as prescribed
- Isolate yourself from loved ones or neglect your self-care
- Give up hope – with treatment, many people with lung cancer live for years after their diagnosis.
If you have been diagnosed with lung cancer, it is important to talk to your doctor about all of your treatment options. Visit Manipal Hospitals for consultation with oncosurgeon in Delhi, we are amongst the best doctors for lung cancer treatment.
HOD And Consultant - Surgical Oncology
Manipal Hospitals - Dwarka, Delhi
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