World Lung Cancer Day 2023: 6 Myths About The Disease That You Might Have Accepted As Facts

World Cancer Day 2023: Every year on August 1, people across the world come together to celebrate World Lung Cancer Day, a significant worldwide occasion that unites people in the battle against cancer. On this day, people from all walks of life join together to spread awareness about the devastation that cancer causes and the value of early detection, prevention, and treatment.

World Lung Cancer Day is an actual reminder that cancer affects millions of people worldwide, regardless of their age, gender, or country of origin. The day's objectives are to educate communities about risk factors, healthy lifestyle options, and the resources available to help cancer patients and their families.

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Since 2012, August 1 has been designated as World Lung Cancer Day. While celebrating the memory of those who have lost their fight with cancer, World Lung Cancer Day also recognises the tenacity and bravery of cancer survivors. Lung cancer is linked to various stigmas and myths that most of us might have believed to be true. Dr. Arunesh Kumar, Sr. Consultant & Head - Pulmonology & Respiratory Medicine, Paras Health, Gurugram, explained some of the common myths and stigmas of Lung cancer.

Only Smoking Can Cause Lung Cancer

Dr. Kumar said There is a common stigma that only the people who smoke can get lung cancer. However, the number of lung cancer patients who have never smoked or used tobacco has been rising, especially women. About 10-20% of lung cancers are found in people who do not smoke. The myth suggests that lung cancer is solely a disease of smokers and non-smokers are immune to this condition. The fact is that lung cancer can affect non-smokers as well, and a significant percentage of cases occur in individuals with no history of smoking or tobacco use. 

E-cigarettes reduce the risk of lung cancer

Some people believe that using e-cigarettes and vaping can lower the risk of developing lung cancer. According to Dr. Arunesh Kumar, in the long term, using vape and e-cigarettes can negatively impact lung health and increase the chances of developing lung cancer and other respiratory diseases. While e-cigarettes may be considered less harmful than traditional cigarettes, they are not entirely safe, and their potential risks should not be underestimated.

Occasional smoking is safe

Some people believe that smoking occasionally, rather than regularly, does not pose significant health risks. The reality is that any level of smoking, even occasional smoking is dangerous and increases the risk of developing lung cancer, according to Dr. Kumar. Regardless of how often they smoke, the longer someone is exposed to it, the greater the chance of developing lung cancer and other harmful health impacts.

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Lung Cancer Only Affects Older People

Lung cancer can strike anyone at any age, including young adults and even teenagers, despite the fact that the risk of the disease rises with age.

Air pollution is not a cause

Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer. However, long term exposure to air pollution can also increase the risk of respiratory diseases and lung cancer. People who live in the polluted cities have higher chances of getting respiratory diseases and lung cancer, according to Dr Kumar..

Lung Cancer Patients Cause Their Own Illness

Dr. Viswesvaran continued by saying that this negative stigma might result in unjust and wrong blaming and shaming.

In order to raise awareness, promote early detection, and build empathy and support for people affected by lung cancer, Dr. Viswesvaran said that it is crucial to bust these beliefs and stigmas. For correct information on lung cancer, always seek the advice of medical experts and reliable sources.