Lung cancer is one of the most serious cancers worldwide and is often diagnosed at an advanced stage because its early symptoms may be mild or easily mistaken for common respiratory problems.

WARNING SIGNS

1.      Persistent or worsening cough

2.      Unexplained weight loss

3.      Breathlessness

4.      Chest pain

5.      Wheezing

6.      Unusual fatigue

7.      Recurrent chest infections

8.      Hemoptysis

 Some patients may have few or no noticeable symptoms until the disease has progressed, making awareness and timely medical evaluation essential.

DIAGNOSIS

Initial tests like

Ø       Chest X ray

Ø       CT SCAN Thorax

Ø       Sputum AFB (to exclude infective pathology)

Confirmatory tests

Ø  Bronchoscopy

Ø  Needle Biopsy

Ø  Thoracentesis

MANAGEMENT

Treatment depends on the type and stage of lung cancer. Depending on the situation, treatment may include:

ü  Surgery

ü  Radiotherapy

ü  chemotherapy

ü  Targeted therapy

ü  Immunotherapy

ü  Ayurveda

Early detection can provide more treatment options and may improve outcomes.

PREVENTION

Smoking remains the leading risk factor for lung cancer. However, passive or second hand smoking is also dangerous. Non-smokers who regularly breathe tobacco smoke are exposed to many of the same cancer-causing chemicals and have an increased risk of developing lung cancer. Protecting ourselves and our families means avoiding tobacco smoke, maintaining smoke-free homes and workplaces, recognizing persistent symptoms, and seeking medical advice without delay. Prevention and early attention can save lives.