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World Lung Cancer Day 2023: Every year, the global event of World Lung Cancer Day is observed on August 1 to spread awareness about the prevention and diagnosis of this hazardous disease. Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers in the world and accounts for the highest mortality rates among both men and women.

According to the American Cancer Society, the chance that a man will develop lung cancer in his lifetime is about 1 in 16 while for a woman, the risk is about 1 in 17. These numbers include both people who smoke and those who don't smoke. For people who smoke the risk is much higher, while for those who don't, the risk is lower.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines lung cancer as cancer that begins in the lungs and may spread to lymph nodes or other organs in the body, such as the brain. Cancer from other organs also may spread to the lungs. Dr. Devavrat Arya, Director, Cancer Care / Oncology, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket shares some important warning signs that one must not ignore and seek medical attention immediately. According to Dr Arya, due to lack of awareness and late diagnosis, most lung cancers are present in advanced stages like stage III/ IV.

1. Persistent Cough

A cold that is associated with a cold or respiratory infection usually goes away within a week, but a persistent cough which worsens with time can be a warning sign of lung cancer. If your cough happens more often, sounds hoarse, and produces blood and a large amount of mucus, then you need to get it checked by your doctor right away.

2. Chest Pain

Persistent or worsening chest pain might be another sign of lung cancer. Lung cancer can cause chest pain that may make it difficult to breathe, cough or even laugh.

3. Unexplained Weight Loss

An unexplained weight loss of about 10 pounds or more can be an alarming sign of lung cancer. According to Dr Arya, the presence of cancer in the body makes the cells use more energy leading to a significant drop in the weight of an individual.

4. Weakness And Fatigue

Dr Arya explains that when lung cancer develops in the body, you may experience fatigue that may not get better with rest or sleep. The presence of other cancer symptoms in the body can lead to weakness and fatigue.

5. Facial Swelling

Another common warning sign of lung cancer is facial swelling. Tumours around the upper area of the right lung can put pressure on the superior vena cava (SVC), a vein that transports blood from the upper body to the heart. This can lead to restricted blood flow and cause swelling in the face, neck, and arms.

Dr Arya also listed some preventive measures for lung cancer that include reducing smoking. If you don’t smoke then reduce your exposure to secondhand smoke. It is said that passive smoking is more dangerous than active smoking. While venturing outdoors, make sure to wear an N95 pollution mask particularly when air pollution is high. Nutrition plays a significant role in protecting the lungs from the harmful effects of air pollutants. Eat colourful fruits and food rich in antioxidants.

 

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