Lung Cancer
Overview
What is Lung Cancer ?
The uncontrolled division of cells in the lungs leads to lung cancer. The formation of tumours in the lungs affects various pulmonary functions, including breathing. Quitting smoking can help in reducing one’s lung cancer risk.
epidemiology
Lung cancer is the most common cancer that leads to death worldwide. According to 2020 GLOBOCAN data, it is the 4th most common cancer in Pakistan. Lung cancer is more common in smokers, although it can also strike non-smokers. Passive smoking or second-hand smoking is also a risk factor for lung cancer.
Causes
Smoking: Smoking is said to be responsible for 80–90 per cent of lung cancer cases. Passive smoking, often known as second-hand smoking, occurs when a person inhales smoke from another person’s cigarette. It is a leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. Those who live with smokers have a 20-30% greater risk, while those who are exposed to second-hand smoke have a 16-19% higher risk, compared to non-smokers who are not exposed to such circumstances.
Exposure to Radon Gas: Long-term exposure to radon gas, which accumulates in buildings, particularly in basements and other low-lying locations, raises the risk of lung cancer.
Diagnosis
There are multiple testing methods available for the detection and diagnosis of lung cancer: Initially, a physical examination and a thorough assessment of the medical history are performed to understand the cause of the symptoms. If any abnormalities are suspected, then additional tests may be recommended.
a. Imaging Tests: A chest X-ray scan may be recommended if an abnormal lump or nodule is suspected. A CT scan of the lungs can identify microscopic lesions that aren’t visible on an X-ray.
b. Sputum Cytology: If a patient has a cough with sputum, it may be collected and examined under a microscope to check for the presence of lung cancer cells.
c. Biopsy: During the biopsy, a tissue sample is collected from the abnormal mass, and it is analysed under the microscope. There are numerous ways that doctors use to collect the biopsy sample.
