Lung Cancer Challenges: Prevention, Diagnosis & Care Tips
Lung cancer is caused by uncontrolled cell division in the lungs. Your cells naturally divide and replicate themselves. However, they may go through changes (mutations) that cause them to keep producing more of themselves when they shouldn't. Damaged cells divide uncontrolled, forming lumps, or tumours, of tissue that eventually prevent your organs from functioning properly. Lung cancer is a term used to describe tumors that develop in the lungs, usually in the airways (bronchi or bronchioles) or small air sacs (alveoli). Generally, the name of a particular can be given based on the organs of the body in which they originated.
Approximately 70,000 to 90,000 new cases of lung cancer are diagnosed each year in India. The rise in new cases, which is particularly noticeable in metropolitan areas, is the result of several factors, including rising smoking rates, increased air pollution, occupational exposures, and an aging population.
Causes
Smoking contributes to around 85% of lung cancer cases. The smoke produced by tobacco contains about 7,000 compounds, the majority of which can cause cancer. Even nonsmokers are at a much higher risk when exposed to secondhand smoke. Additional risk factors include radon gas, asbestos, and air pollution. A family history of lung cancer increases the risk, as do genetic variables.
Symptoms
Symptoms of lung cancer often include a chronic cough, chest pain, difficulty breathing, wheezing, unexplained weight loss, and coughing up blood. Due to the ambiguity of the symptoms, lung cancer is commonly discovered at a later stage. Chest X-rays and CT scans are often used to make the diagnosis, which is then confirmed by a biopsy.
Diagnoses
Early Detected
Low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) is a highly effective approach for lung cancer screening, especially for people who have a history of heavy smoking (20 pack years or more), are over the age of 50, or have other risk factors. This test raises the likelihood of survival, is safe, and finds lung cancer early.
Treatment Options
The severity and type of disease have a significant impact on the effectiveness of treatment. In the case of early-stage lung cancer, surgery is the first line of treatment. In severe cases, immunotherapy, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy are also required for cancer treatment. Along with these therapies, next-generation sequencing (NGS) and targeted medicines also transformed cancer management in advanced stages.
Care Tips
●Hair loss, nausea, and exhaustion are the major side effects of cancer treatment, and they can be managed by maintaining proper hydration, engaging in relaxation exercises, and eating a nutritious, well-balanced diet, which can all be beneficial.
●Even light physical activity, such as walking, can alleviate treatment side effects and enhance mood. Gentle workouts, such as yoga, may help to maintain lung function.
●Consult a dietician to help you maintain your energy and weight while in therapy. Protein-rich foods and simple carbs can supply the necessary sustenance.
●One's emotional well-being can be significantly impacted by lung cancer. Patients and carers can benefit from support groups, counselling, and mindfulness practices to help them manage their fear, worry, and despair.
●Maintain open channels of communication with your doctor about symptoms, side effects, and emotional health. Adjust therapy as needed, and consider alternative therapies such as acupuncture or massage for symptom relief.
●Living with lung cancer may necessitate lifestyle changes. Planning for future care needs, such as home renovations or caring arrangements, can help to alleviate stress.
Conclusion
Proactive measures are needed as lung cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment are interlinked issues. Patients can manage and improve their condition with the help of treatment regimens, lifestyle changes, and early detection. Emotional support from experts and close family is essential to getting through this challenging time.
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