While modern technology and infrastructure have made our lives more comfortable, it has also brought some negatives into our lives, such as pollution. One of the
best cancer hospital in Jaipur have suggested that air pollutionis linked to rising lung cancer cases among non-smokers, particularly in the young population & women.
Lung cancer is one of the most common types of cancer and is the leading cause of cancer deaths in men. Due to its continuing effect on the lives of so many people, it would be wise to know more about the disease and what we can do to beat it.
What is lung cancer?
Lung cancer is a common type of cancer that originates in the respiratory system, such as breathing tube, glands near the bronchi or outside the lungs. It occurs when the cells in these organs start mutating and grow uncontrollably.
These malignant cells can form a tumour and start targeting their surrounding tissues. As cancer grows, it can begin to cause more severe symptoms. It can also spread into the other body parts and become more difficult to treat without timely intervention.
What are the types of lung cancer?
Lung cancer has been categorized into two types. Small cell lung cancer occurs in heavy smokers and spreads faster than other cancers. Non-small cell lung cancer is used to address more common lung cancers and makes up about 80% of all cases. Types of non-small lung cancer are:
- Adenocarcinoma: It occurs near the periphery of the lung and can affect both smokers and non-smokers.
- Squamous cell carcinoma: It occurs in the breathing tubes near the centre of the chest.
- Large cell carcinoma: It occurs near the periphery of the lungs and can spread into the near tissues.
- Mesothelioma: It’s a rare type of lung cancer that occurs in the mesothelium, the protective membrane covering the lungs.
What are the symptoms of lung cancer?
Lung cancer doesn’t show any signs and symptoms in its early stages. However, few signs can show cancer’s advancement and can lead to timely intervention and treatment by the best cancer hospital in Jaipur. These symptoms are:
- Chronic cough
- Bloody phlegm
- Pain in check and upper back
- Shortness of breath
- Sudden weight loss
- Weakness and fatigue
As cancer spreads, it can also cause other respiratoryinfections, such as bronchitis or pneumonia along with additional symptoms,which are:
- Swelling in the lymph nodes
- Pain in bones, such as ribs or hips
- Headache or dizziness
- Yellowing of skin and eyes
Without treatment, these symptoms will continue to worsen, so if you have any of these symptoms, you must consult with a
cancer doctor in Jaipur to find the best treatment option.
What are the causes of lung cancer?
In heavy smokers, the risk of developing lung may be up to 25 times higher than in someone who never smoked. While smoking is the most common cause of lung cancer, others factors such as pollution and radon exposure also increase the risk.
These factors can cause irreversible damage to the cells, increasing the chances of developing lung cancer. While some of these factors can be controlled by slight changes in lifestyle, others require a more cautious approach. These factors are:
- Ageing
- Lung infections
- History of cancer in the family
- Exposure to second-hand smoke
- Exposure to asbestos and carcinogens
- Radiation exposure
How can we prevent lung cancer?
Currently, there’s no sure way to prevent lung cancer, but you can still lower its risk. Here are some things that you can try to reduce the risk of lung cancer:
- Quit smoking
- Avoid second-hand smoke
- Control the exposure to harmful pollutants
- Get regular exercise
- Eat a healthy diet
What are the treatments for lung cancer?
Lung cancers are challenging to treat because they’re often diagnosed in the late stages. Also, the respiratory system is very sensitive and delicate and can’t handle some treatments. It requires a multidisciplinary approach to control cancer and to improve quality of life. Therefore, the cancer doctor in Jaipur provides the most viable treatment option to each patient. These treatments can include:
Surgery:
It’s the most effective treatment in which our surgeon will remove the cancerous tissues along with the surrounding tissues. It has a far better outcome and lower recurrence rate than any other treatment option.
Chemotherapy:
Our doctors will use a group of drugs to stop cancer from spreading. Chemotherapy can be delivered through a vein or a catheter, depending on the stage of cancer.
Radiation therapy:
Radiation therapy is performed to destroy the DNA of cancer cells. It can also be used in conjunction with chemotherapy if surgery isn’t an option.